As the festive season approaches, Tesco is taking active steps by involving its customers in evaluating the seasonal cheer of its employees through a unique survey.In a recent initiative, Tesco has introduced an online survey asking customers to assess the festive spirit exhibited by its staff. This measure comes as the retailer intensifies its Christmas preparations, aiming to enhance the holiday shopping experience. The survey, which was circulated via email, probes customers with questions such as ‘How much festive spirit did you find staff had in store?’.Responses from the public have surfaced on social media, with users expressing varied views…
Author: Dave Antrobus
In a significant shift within the UK retail landscape, Tesco has overtaken Asda as the most cost-effective option for a large household shop, marking the first such occurrence since June, according to the latest analysis by Which?.Research reveals that a typical large trolley load of 159 items at Tesco, with the added benefit of Clubcard discounts, costs £399.73. In contrast, the same selection at Asda comes to £409.36, a difference of £9.63. However, it is noteworthy that without the Clubcard savings, Tesco’s pricing rises to £441.14. Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s, utilising its Nectar card savings, ranks as the third cheapest, with a…
The 4G rollout on the Elizabeth Line has finally been completed, marking significant progress for Transport for London (TfL).Despite this advancement, much of London’s underground network remains without mobile connectivity.London lags behind European cities like Paris and Lisbon in underground 4G coverage.Improved connectivity aims to enhance network reliability and support the Emergency Services Network.Plans are underway to expand 4G coverage across more lines, with further improvements expected soon.The completion of the 4G infrastructure rollout across the Elizabeth Line represents a notable milestone for Transport for London (TfL). This achievement enables TfL to provide mobile coverage in parts of the Elizabeth,…
Amazon has announced a milestone with its latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, setting new records for the event.The company recorded its largest 12-day sales period, surpassing previous years’ figures.UK shoppers showed a preference for Alexa devices and various top-selling items.There was a notable increase in the purchase of resale products, supporting sustainability efforts.Independent sellers saw significant success, contributing over 60% of the sales.Amazon has proudly reported a landmark achievement in its recent Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. The company claims this year’s seasonal event marked its most successful yet, with unprecedented figures recorded over the 12-day span…
Debenhams has reversed its financial downturn and is now profitable, showcasing strong growth in its marketplace model.The online department store posted a pre-tax profit of £3.27m in the latest fiscal year, a significant turnaround from a £721,000 loss in the previous year.Sales figures show a reduction from £87.1m to £39.73m, yet the gross merchandise value increased by 65%, reaching £359.69m.The marketplace model, described as stock-light and capital-light, is proving to be highly profitable.CEO Dan Finley emphasises the strong start to the current financial year and sees substantial opportunities moving forward.Debenhams has made a notable recovery, turning its financial losses into…
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves addresses business challenges amidst proposed National Insurance hikes.The rise in National Insurance contributions will affect employers significantly starting April 2025.Businesses express concerns over potential job cuts and recruitment freezes due to increased financial burdens.Chancellor Reeves outlines government spending plans to avoid similar budget measures in the future.Over 70 retailers caution that new costs could escalate expenses up to £70bn annually.Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, has openly acknowledged the difficulties businesses will encounter due to the forthcoming increase in National Insurance employer contributions. In her address at a Hull conference, Reeves stated, “I’m not…
2024 saw significant declines in various retail sectors, with notable companies entering administration.Homebase, a household name in DIY, failed to find a new buyer and went into administration, with a portion acquired by CDS Superstores.CTD Tiles was partially salvaged by Topps Tiles after facing financial difficulties, though not all stores were saved.Carpetright, a major flooring retailer, entered administration due to unresolved financial issues, leading to a partial acquisition by Tapi.The Body Shop underwent a cultural reset after administrative challenges, with new ownership under a consortium led by Mike Jatania.Throughout 2024, several high-profile retailers succumbed to financial pressures, impacting the landscape…
M&S has inaugurated its first clothing-exclusive store within London’s iconic Battersea Power Station.Spanning 8,400 square feet, the store features comprehensive collections for both women and men.Shoppers can explore specific sections for Jaeger, Autograph, and Rosie within the new store.A small selection of beauty products is available along with click-and-collect services.This initiative is part of M&S’s £30 million investment in London, including new food halls and refurbishments.M&S has launched a pioneering clothing-only store located in the heart of London’s historic Battersea Power Station. Spanning an impressive 8,400 square feet, the store showcases M&S’s expansive ranges in womenswear and menswear. Visitors will…
Mat Dunn has left Gymshark after serving as CFO for just under two years.Originally from Asos, Dunn joined Gymshark in December 2022.A spokesperson highlighted Dunn’s significant contributions to finance and commerce.Gymshark is actively expanding with new stores planned for 2025.Despite growing sales, the retailer’s pre-tax profits have halved.Mat Dunn has departed from his role as Chief Financial Officer at Gymshark after a tenure that lasted just under two years. His journey with the fitness apparel company began in December 2022 when he transitioned from a similar role at Asos, where he served as both Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial…
Unilever’s Chief Executive, Hein Schumacher, has announced the company’s intention to sell several food brands worth over €1bn (£830.6m) as part of a strategy to refine its business focus.In a recent interview with a Dutch financial publication, Schumacher expressed plans to streamline Unilever’s food division. The consumer goods giant is looking to shed what he describes as a ‘rather eclectic portfolio of food brands’ to concentrate resources on condiments, products, and sauces primarily aimed at restaurants and professional kitchens.The specifics of which brands will be sold remain undisclosed, although a report from Reuters hinted at potential sales in both Britain…