As the 2024 general election approaches, voters are scrutinising retail policies from the Conservative, Labour, and Liberal Democrats.The Liberal Democrats propose replacing business rates with a ‘commercial landowner levy’ aimed at landlords.The Conservative Party offers a support package of £4.3bn for small businesses and plans to increase taxes on distribution warehouses.Labour aims to redesign the business rates system to create fair competition between online and high street businesses.Each party is also focusing on international trade, apprenticeship schemes, and retail crime, albeit with differing emphases.As the UK prepares for the 2024 general election, the manifestos of the three major parties reveal…
Author: Dave Antrobus
End Clothing announces the departure of chief buying and merchandising officer Lea Cranfield, effective August.Terry Betts is appointed as interim successor, starting 1 July, until a permanent replacement is found.Cranfield joined End Clothing in May 2023 from Yoox Net-a-Porter, leaving a significant impact on the team.Promotions within the company include Dean Walker to director of sports and energy and Sevcan Halit to buying manager.CEO Parker Gundersen expresses gratitude for Cranfield’s contributions and enthusiasm for Betts joining the team.End Clothing, a noted player in the luxury retail market, has confirmed the impending departure of its chief buying and merchandising officer, Lea…
A concerning trend is emerging in the cybersecurity sector, with stress and burnout rising among professionals.Half of cybersecurity professionals predict experiencing burnout within the next year due to job-related pressures.A staggering 35% anticipate reaching burnout within a mere six months, raising alarm bells across the industry.Despite recognising stress issues, few believe senior management is actively working to alleviate their burdens.A cultural overhaul within organisations is needed to mitigate burnout and tackle increasing cyber threats effectively.A pressing issue is unfolding within the cybersecurity profession, revealing that half of the workforce anticipates experiencing burnout within the forthcoming year because of occupational pressures.…
The UK’s economic progress remained stagnant in April, aligning with the expectations of analysts.April saw the UK’s gross domestic product (GDP) showing no growth, in contrast to a 0.4% increase recorded in March.Retail sales suffered a significant downturn, with volumes dropping by 2.3%, mainly due to adverse weather conditions.While the service sector managed a modest growth of 0.2%, it was insufficient to offset the declines in retail.Political figures exchanged views on economic growth, with differing opinions on the future outlook.The Office for National Statistics reported that the UK’s GDP remained flat in April, showing no change from the previous month.…
John Lewis Partnership has submitted plans for a major residential development above the Waitrose store in West Ealing, London, with no decision yet from the council.The planning application includes 428 homes, incorporating 83 affordable rental units, enhancing community housing options.Ealing Council’s decision delay has prompted John Lewis to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate due to non-determination concerns.The development is part of John Lewis’s strategy to diversify its income and build 10,000 homes over the next decade.Katherine Russell of John Lewis highlighted the project’s potential to rejuvenate a brownfield site near a key transport link.John Lewis Partnership is seeking to advance…
Julie Morrison’s appointment as a property partner bolsters Bevan Brittan’s Leeds office, reflecting the firm’s significant growth.Morrison brings over two decades of real estate expertise to the table, set to enhance services to NHS bodies and the Welsh Education Partnership.Joining from Eversheds, Morrison has a strong track record in advising on complex real estate transactions.Her addition comes as the Leeds office celebrates surpassing 100 staff and nine internal promotions.This strategic appointment underscores Bevan Brittan’s commitment to expanding its legal services both regionally and nationally.Julie Morrison’s recent appointment as a property partner at Bevan Brittan marks a significant enhancement to the…
As Euro 2024 approaches, HR teams face challenges in maintaining productivity amid excitement. Matches are scheduled on weekdays, potentially disrupting work.Employers are implementing flexible working hours and staggered shifts to accommodate employees and maintain workflow.Remote working is encouraged on match days, supported by strong technological infrastructure, allowing flexibility and engagement simultaneously.Viewing areas within workplaces are designated for match watching, promoting team morale and interaction.Clear productivity expectations are set, and project management tools are used to ensure accountability and track progress.As the Euro 2024 football tournament approaches, scheduled from June 14 to July 14, 2024, it brings unique challenges to workplace…
The Conservative Party has outlined their vision for the UK, impacting fashion retail.Financial security initiatives top the Conservative agenda with proposed tax cuts.Apprenticeship expansion and skilled visa adjustments are key pledges.Manufacturing and local high street revival are central to economic plans.A significant business rates support package is promised for small businesses.The Conservative Party has presented their comprehensive manifesto ahead of the upcoming general election, generating interest across various sectors including fashion retail. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, speaking at the Silverstone Circuit, emphasised financial security for citizens. Proposed tax cuts are expected to be a pivotal part of their economic strategy,…
Midwives have been identified as the most stressed workers in the UK, scoring 8.8 out of 10 on a stress index.Workplace stress in healthcare is largely due to high demand, emotional intensity, and insufficient resources.Around 15% of British workers occupy stressful roles within the health and social work sector.Public administration jobs, including police and fire services, also show high stress levels.Mental health can be improved by fostering work-life balance and understanding personal stress triggers.Midwives, according to recent research, endure the highest levels of workplace stress across the UK job market, registering an index score of 8.8 out of 10. This…
According to the CIPD Good Work Index 2024, workplace conflict significantly impacts job quality for around eight million UK workers, affecting their job satisfaction, mental, and physical health.25% of UK workers experienced workplace conflict in the past year, with common issues being verbal abuse, heated arguments, and discriminatory behaviour.Those experiencing conflict report lower job satisfaction and a higher likelihood of leaving their jobs, with 33% considering departure compared to 16% of those without conflict.The CIPD recommends employers focus on line management training to address causes of conflict like poor management and excessive workloads.Survey results highlight that unresolved conflict often stems…