The start of the festive shopping season has seen a decline in retail sales, causing concern for retailers.Recent figures show a 3.3% drop in total sales for November, compared to a 2.6% growth in the same month last year.Food sales showed some resilience, increasing by 2.4% year-on-year, though this is below the average growth.Non-food sales have taken a hit, with a significant decline observed in online purchases.Retailers are hopeful for a delayed, rather than diminished, consumer spending spree as the holiday season progresses.The retail sector is experiencing a challenging start to what is traditionally known as its ‘Golden Quarter’, as…
Author: Dave Antrobus
Recent findings highlight the shifting dynamics in civil legal aid, revealing how solicitors are increasingly stepping into advocacy roles traditionally held by barristers.Research conducted for the government’s review of civil legal aid uncovers an evolving trend: the line between solicitor and barrister roles is becoming less distinct. This change is particularly evident as solicitors undertake advocacy work themselves, a move driven by both necessity and strategic choice.The difficulty solicitors face in appointing barristers for lower court cases, often perceived as less engaging and lower profile, further contributes to this shift. The shortage of available barristers, especially for short-notice hearings in…
The BBC has announced a new tender process for its Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).The LDRS funds journalism in local news through 165 reporters in commercial newsrooms.Over 440,000 stories have been produced for more than 1,100 news outlets since 2017.A 6.5% funding increase marks the BBC’s commitment to supporting local journalism.New contract phase starts July 2025, running for two-and-a-half years.The BBC is set to begin a new tendering process for its Local Democracy Reporting Service, a scheme designed to bolster local journalism across the UK. This initiative funds a network of 165 journalists, all based in commercial newsrooms, who are…
Fuuse, a leading EV charging specialist, reinforces its services by acquiring Everyday EV.The acquisition is aimed at enhancing services for EV drivers across the UK.Everyday EV is recognised for its driver support and charger monitoring expertise.This move aligns with new Public Charge Point Regulations demanding 24/7 helpline.Fuuse’s leadership sees this as an opportunity to optimise charger reliability and compliance.Lancaster-based Fuuse, known for its innovations in EV charging solutions, has strengthened its position by acquiring several assets from Everyday EV. This acquisition is aimed at bolstering Fuuse’s ability to offer consistent and reliable support to businesses managing charge points and their…
Co-op has announced a significant extension to its £400 million sustainability-linked revolving credit facility, now set to continue until November 2029. This move is a testament to the retailer’s dedication to sustainable growth and ensuring financial resources are aligned with their environmental goals.The extension of the credit facility involves cooperation with six prominent banks—National Westminster Bank, Barclays Bank, Handelsbanken PLC, Lloyds Bank PLC, ING Bank, and Santander. These financial institutions link the cost of borrowing to Co-op’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments, enhancing the retailer’s focus on sustainability.Currently, approximately 47% of Co-op’s Scope 3 emissions are managed by suppliers…
Co-op has announced a significant extension to its sustainability-linked revolving credit facility, now set to last until November 2029.This extension is a crucial step in Co-op’s broader strategy to reinforce its commitment to sustainable business practices. The £400 million facility will serve as a financial safety net, ensuring Co-op can access additional funds to support its sustainability and growth ambitions when necessary. Six major banks, including National Westminster and Barclays, have backed this initiative, linking Co-op’s borrowing costs to its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments.Currently, approximately 47% of Co-op’s Scope 3 emissions are covered by suppliers who adhere to…
Nisa has introduced a compelling new ‘three for £4’ mix-and-match freezer deal, aimed at enhancing customer engagement while offering flexible shopping options.This innovative promotion is set to continue through to 2025, effectively replacing the previous ‘five for £6’ offer. It signifies a strategic move by Nisa to meet the growing consumer demand for more adaptable and cost-effective meal solutions.Recent studies highlight a significant trend among consumers towards these mix-and-match offers. Evidence of this is seen in the retail sector, where there has been a notable 17% year-on-year increase in partners opting into such deals, driven by an increasing appetite for…
Argo Blockchain, a key player in cryptocurrency mining, has secured £4.2m by issuing new shares.This financial injection will aid in relocating or selling equipment held in Texas and maintaining operations in Quebec.The funds will further support Argo’s entry into high-performance computing (HPC).The company experienced a turbulent market ride with a peak share price in 2021, dropping sharply during the ‘crypto winter’.Leadership changes and financial challenges marked 2023 after reporting a gross profit of $3.8m following significant losses.Argo Blockchain, a prominent player in the crypto mining sector, has successfully raised £4.2 million through the sale of new shares to an institutional…
Carousel has undergone significant changes at its leadership level.Tom Cummings has been promoted to deputy managing director.Rebecca Barnes transitions to a senior board director role.Chloe Sharp is now the director of social media.These changes come amid a period of expansion and new client acquisitions.Carousel has announced a reshuffle at the top of its management team. Tom Cummings, who previously served as the agency’s first director of strategy, has been promoted to the role of deputy managing director. This move reflects his critical role in shaping the agency’s client and business strategy over the past two years. His responsibilities will continue…
Supreme, a consumer goods distributor, has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of Typhoo Tea for £10.2 million.The deal includes Typhoo Tea’s stock and trade debtors valued at £7.5 million, ensuring a seamless integration.Established in 1903, Typhoo Tea brings a rich history of pre-packaged tea and diverse product offerings.Supreme aims to leverage Typhoo’s brand to enhance its sales and innovation opportunities.This acquisition aligns with Supreme’s strategy to diversify its non-vape sales, aiming for substantial growth.Supreme, based in Stretford, has announced its acquisition of the Typhoo Tea brand for £10.2 million, bolstering its portfolio in consumer goods. The transaction not only…