The fashion retail industry expresses optimism following Labour’s decisive victory, highlighting the need for urgent action on key issues.Labour’s triumph in the general election is seen as a significant opportunity for retail reform, with leaders calling for constructive collaboration.There is a strong emphasis on reforming business rates and addressing retail crime, crucial components of Labour’s promises.Industry bodies stress the importance of Labour’s commitments to worker protection and sustainable growth.Calls for a restoration of the VAT Retail Export Scheme and support for fashion education highlight critical needs.The fashion retail industry has reacted positively to Labour’s landslide victory, with more than 400…
Author: Dave Antrobus
The British Retail Consortium is calling for urgent reforms to revitalise local high streets as footfall continues to decline.UK footfall fell by 2.3% in June, with shopping centres hardest hit.A fast-track planning system with automatic approvals could empower retailers to invest nationwide.Reforming business rates is deemed crucial for the prosperity of town and city centres.Warmer weather and major events are seen as potential boosts for footfall in July.In June, the UK witnessed a 2.3% decline in footfall compared to the previous month, with shopping centres experiencing a significant 3.2% drop. This trend marks a continuation of the challenges facing retailers,…
Labour has decisively won the 2024 general election, ending 14 years of Conservative leadership.The party, led by Sir Keir Starmer, secured over 400 seats in the House of Commons.Sterling and FTSE indices reacted positively to the election results.Labour’s manifesto focuses on business reforms, retail crime, and youth opportunities.The party committed to abolishing the current business rates system.Labour has achieved a significant victory in the 2024 general election, securing over 400 out of 650 seats. This triumph marks the end of a 14-year tenure by the Conservative Party, ushering in a new era under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer.Sir Keir…
Thornton Jones Solicitors has continued its investment in talented individuals, marking the second year of its progression programme.The initiative aims to identify and promote professionals inclined towards progression within their legal careers.In this cycle, the firm has elevated one team member to partner and two to senior associate roles.Candidates undergo a rigorous selection process comprising interviews, presentations to the board, and peer feedback.Managing Director Clare Thornton emphasised equal opportunity and skill development through this programme.Thornton Jones Solicitors has reaffirmed its commitment to professional development through the continuation of its progression programme, now in its second year. By fostering a culture…
At the Drapers Supply Chain Summit, Phil Hackney, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Matalan, shared three key strategies to bolster supply chain robustness.The event highlighted the importance of flexibility and adaptability in supply chain management.Hackney emphasised the role of technology in streamlining operations and improving efficiency.Collaborative partnerships were identified as crucial for fostering innovation and addressing challenges in the supply chain.Hackney underscored the need for a proactive approach to risk management, ensuring supply chain resilience.At the Drapers Supply Chain Summit, industry leaders came together to discuss the pressing challenges and opportunities in modern supply chain management. Phil Hackney, Matalan’s Chief…
Kicking off the Drapers Supply Chain Summit, AllSaints COO, Catherine Jobling, highlighted the retailer’s efforts towards sustainability through supplier management.Emphasising the importance of supplier relationships, Catherine explained how AllSaints collaborates closely with them to meet sustainability objectives.The COO highlighted strategic changes in sourcing practices aimed at promoting environmental and ethical standards.AllSaints is focused on achieving long-term sustainability goals by adapting its supply chain practices.Catherine’s speech set the tone for the summit with a call for more retailers to consider sustainable supply chain strategies.Catherine Jobling, the Chief Operating Officer of AllSaints, delivered the opening address at the Drapers Supply Chain Summit.…
Nearly a third of UK SMEs have paused business areas due to financial constraints.Research commissioned by Manx Financial Group reveals significant financial difficulty among SMEs.Hiring, marketing, and expansion are the most affected business activities.Securing external finance remains a considerable challenge, with many adopting short-term loans.The necessity for innovative financial solutions is critical to mitigate economic risks.Nearly a third of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the United Kingdom have halted or paused certain business operations over recent years due to financial difficulties. This situation has been highlighted by new research initiated by Manx Financial Group PLC, pointing to a significant…
Nudea, a sustainable underwear brand, expands its reach by launching in Nordstrom stores across North America.Nudea’s collections will be available from July 4, coinciding with Independence Day celebrations.Currently, Nudea is represented by 16 stockists throughout the USA, with Nordstrom marking a significant milestone.The collaboration highlights Nordstrom’s extensive reach and premium market positioning.Priya Downes, Nudea’s CEO, expresses enthusiasm for this strategic expansion.Nudea, the award-winning sustainable underwear brand, is set to make a significant impact with its launch in Nordstrom department stores across North America on July 4, aligning with the nation’s Independence Day celebrations. This move marks a strategic expansion for…
Marks & Spencer is set to enhance its presence in the UK with the launch of two flagship stores in Bristol and Bath.The Bristol store in Cabot Circus represents a significant investment of £21 million, aiming to create up to 150 job opportunities.In Bath, the retailer will move to an 83,000 sq ft location in Southgate shopping centre, investing £17 million in the initiative.This expansion is part of a broader strategy by M&S to open multiple full-line stores and food halls across the UK this financial year.CEO Stuart Machin emphasises the goal to enhance customer shopping experiences and has seen…
A recent study highlights jobs with unusual concentrations across the UK.London boasts an exceptionally high number of CEOs compared to other regions.The East Midlands sees a surge in publicans and licensed premises managers.Scotland leads with the highest density of early education practitioners.Northern Ireland’s government roles show disproportionate employment figures.New research has identified the most disproportionately common jobs in various UK regions, revealing intriguing employment trends. This analysis provides insights into job distribution deviating from national averages, with certain roles being markedly over-represented. For instance, London exhibits nearly twice the concentration of CEOs than elsewhere, aligning with its status as a…