The ongoing search for Asda’s new CEO remains a hot topic as Allan Leighton returns as executive chair, aiming to fill the top position.Leighton previously led Asda’s significant transformation, enhancing expectations for his renewed involvement.Tony Hoggett, with his extensive experience at Tesco and Amazon, emerges as a potential candidate.Barry Williams’ history with Asda and experience in convenience retail positions him as a strong contender.Clodagh Moriarty’s digital innovation success at Sainsbury’s makes her a possible choice to drive customer engagement at Asda.The ongoing search for a permanent CEO at Asda remains unresolved, despite the significant role offering a potential pay package…
Author: Dave Antrobus
In a rare legal move, the High Court has annulled a notice of intervention issued by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) against a law firm, citing that the potential harm to the involved solicitor and his clientele outweighed the risks posed to the public.The High Court’s decision comes after an intervention by the SRA in July 2024, which was driven by suspicions of dishonesty involving Martyn Howard Santer, a seasoned solicitor, and his firm. His Honour Judge Jarman KC noted that while there were grounds to suspect dishonest actions by Mr Santer and Asad Sahi, known to be the disbarred…
Dr Martens has reported a challenging first half with financial losses due to elevated costs and weak wholesale revenue in the US.The company posted a pre-tax loss of £28.7 million for the six months ending 29 September 2024, compared to a £25.8 million profit the previous year.Despite the challenges, trading has shown improvement in all regions, driven by strong direct-to-consumer sales.Cost-cutting measures are expected to save the company £25 million by FY26, primarily through job reductions.A leadership transition is underway, with Ije Nwokorie set to take over as CEO in January 2025.Dr Martens has reported a significant financial setback, swinging…
As the holiday season nears, concerns over the economy are impacting retail habits.A recent report indicates mixed feelings about personal finance and the general economy.There’s a modest rise in personal spending despite economic worries, driven by festive preparations.Personal financial outlook has slightly improved, yet broader economic expectations have dipped.Retailers are under pressure due to expected cost increases impacting prices and investments.A recent survey by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) reveals a complex picture of consumer sentiment as the festive period approaches. While there was a slight improvement in expectations regarding personal finances, broader economic outlooks have declined. The survey, which…
A former board member of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has urged the top leaders of the organisation to resign in light of a critical report concerning the handling of Axiom Ince.Tony Williams, who served on the SRA board until August 2022, has called for the resignation of the chair and chief executive. He suggested that if they do not step down, other board members should consider resigning as a sign of accountability. The board’s recent decision to extend Ms Bradley’s term as chair has been criticised for seemingly rewarding poor performance.An independent report commissioned by the Legal Services Board…
Recent research reveals a growing public awareness and more favourable view of class actions, despite ongoing concerns about financial implications for claimants.A comprehensive study by Portland Communications has highlighted a remarkable increase in public awareness and optimism regarding class actions. This is the highest level of public awareness recorded since data collection began in 2020. Surveys conducted included responses from over 2,000 individuals and 540 senior business leaders.The findings indicate that 24% of consumers now claim high awareness of class actions, which marks a notable increase of five percentage points from the previous year. Meanwhile, those with low awareness have…
The recent increase in National Insurance contributions has significant financial implications for listed law firms, with major players outlining strategies to mitigate the impact.The law firm Gateley has projected an additional cost of £1.8 million due to the rise in National Insurance, a burden it plans to manage through strategic pricing adjustments and efficiency enhancements. This comes as part of a broader financial update where Gateley reported a 5% growth in both revenue and underlying profit before tax for the first half of the fiscal year, ending 31 October, with revenues expected to exceed £86 million and profits reaching £10.5…
A Manchester agency has refreshed the popular cocktail advent calendar.The 2024 calendar features a new shape and trendy design.The design is inspired by Gen-Z styles with vibrant colours and patterns.Key brand elements remain prominent, enhancing recognition.The update aims to capture attention during the crucial Christmas period.BGN, a design and digital agency based in Manchester, has revamped the much-loved FUNKIN COCKTAILS Ultimate Nitro Cocktail Advent Calendar for 2024. The agency aims to provide a fresh look by introducing a unique shape and design that is in line with current trends. This initiative is encapsulated in the campaign line, “Anytime, Anywhere. IT’S…
Iceland Foods has tapped MC2, a Northern UK agency, to drive its global expansion efforts.The collaboration aims to enhance Iceland Foods’ digital presence and brand value worldwide.MC2 will focus on engaging campaigns to attract potential clients globally for Iceland.The initiative includes a brand refresh and new digital strategies to support growth.Iceland’s International division operates in over 70 countries, showcasing its award-winning products.Iceland Foods has enlisted the services of MC2, a strategic communications agency based in Northern UK, to spearhead its international expansion. MC2’s role is to support Iceland’s International and Partnerships division, tasked with delivering Iceland’s renowned product range to…
JD Sports finalises €520m acquisition of Courir after EU approval.Acquisition includes stores across France and other European countries.Courir’s female-focused brand, Naked, included in the takeover.Certain stores to be sold to Snipes as per EU conditions.New customer base enhances JD Sports’ market reach.JD Sports Fashion has successfully completed its significant €520 million acquisition of the French sportswear and footwear retailer, Courir. This development comes after receiving clearance from the European Commission, allowing the takeover to proceed without legal hindrance.The acquisition encompasses Courir’s extensive network of 323 stores located in France, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Luxembourg. In addition, the acquisition…