A robotics start-up heavily funded by Ocado has been sold for £350,000.Karakuri, founded in 2018, developed innovative kitchen automation technology.The start-up had raised £13m but collapsed in June due to funding issues.RSM was consulted as potential administrators when recapitalisation efforts failed.Founders and stakeholders expressed disappointment over economic challenges.Karakuri, a pioneering robotics start-up established in 2018 by Barney Wragg, has been sold for a mere £350,000 despite attracting millions in investment from major players including Ocado and the taxpayer-supported Future Fund. Initially promising revolution in kitchen automation through its robotic chef for noodles and an automatic fryer, the company’s potential seemed…
Author: Dave Antrobus
A government recycling initiative could impose a significant financial burden on retailers.The British Retail Consortium estimates the annual cost at £1.8bn, a figure considerably higher than initial government projections.The scheme intends to reduce plastic waste through a refundable deposit on drink containers.Concerns arise that costs could be passed onto consumers, exacerbating already high prices.Industry leaders are calling for a delay and re-evaluation of the scheme’s complexity and cost.The government’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is poised to introduce a substantial financial load on UK retailers, estimated at £1.8 billion annually by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). This figure starkly contrasts with…
Morrisons partners with the NHS to promote cancer awareness via underwear labels.The initiative aims to encourage early detection of breast and testicular cancer.Underwear will feature NHS advice alongside standard information, starting with boxer shorts.A QR code on the packaging provides access to detailed NHS cancer information.Morrisons committed £10,000 to NHS Charities Together and £2m for paramedic training.Morrisons has taken an innovative step by partnering with the NHS to enhance cancer awareness. The collaboration involves placing NHS advice on underwear labels, specifically targeting the early detection of breast and testicular cancer. This initiative is aimed at encouraging individuals to be more…
The Co-op is broadening its anti-theft measures by extending the trial use of ‘dummy display packaging’.This initiative aims to combat the escalating issue of theft driven by organised criminal activities.The strategy involves using empty packaging for high-value items like coffee and laundry products.The retailer previously saw success with this approach in select locations and plans further implementation.Concerns over the rise in shoplifting have prompted significant investment to enhance store and staff safety.In a bid to tackle the increasing incidents of theft, the Co-op is extending its trial of dummy display packaging. This initiative focuses on high-value items that are typically…
Amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, certain FMCG companies continue their operations in Russia, drawing international scrutiny.Unilever’s decision to maintain its business presence in Russia has sparked controversy, despite being named an ‘international sponsor of war’ by Ukraine.P&G maintains significant operations in Russia, focusing on health and hygiene products, despite earlier claims of reducing its market footprint.Nestlé confronts ethical challenges as its extensive workforce in Russia remains at risk of conscription, despite reducing its product range.Bacardi faces accusations of complicity in Russia’s war efforts, having continued sales in the country despite announcing suspensions.In light of the ongoing conflict between Russia and…
Waitrose is preparing for the World Cup final with increased breakfast supplies as fans gear up for the big event.Football enthusiasts in the UK are expected to gather for the World Cup final, sparking a demand for breakfast staples.Retailers anticipate high demand for brunch items and delivery services as excitement builds for the historic football match.Sales projections indicate a surge in related goods, with supermarket chains ready to meet consumer needs.The event marks a significant moment in sporting history, drawing millions to watch and celebrate at home.As the World Cup final approaches, Waitrose has strategically enhanced its stock of breakfast…
Asda introduces an extensive new range of over 130 scratch-cooking ingredients, catering to varied culinary preferences.The new range spans over ten cuisines, including Indian and Thai, aimed at inspiring creativity in home kitchens.Prices for these pre-prepared ingredients start at 80p, ensuring accessibility for a wide consumer base.Research shows that over half of UK home cooks enjoy experimenting with new cooking trends, though many face challenges with seasoning.Asda supports this launch with video content and recipes from social media food creators to guide home cooks.Asda has unveiled a comprehensive selection of over 130 scratch-cooking ingredients, designed to cater to diverse culinary…
George at Asda collaborates with Stacey Solomon for an exclusive homeware range.Stacey Solomon’s collection, ‘At Home with Stacey Solomon Exclusively for George Home’, showcases over 200 pieces.The homeware range, inspired by Solomon’s pets and personal style, spans bath to living accessories.The collection features seasonal updates beginning with autumnal accessories, with prices starting at £1.This collaboration marks a significant venture merging affordability with style, starting September.In a significant collaboration, George at Asda has teamed up with Stacey Solomon to launch an exclusive homeware collection. This range, ‘At Home with Stacey Solomon Exclusively for George Home’, marks the TV presenter’s venture into…
Deliveroo’s journey from a small startup to a major player in the convenience grocery sector has been impressive.Initially, Deliveroo revolutionised restaurant deliveries, creating a new premium takeaway model in the process.They then pivoted to include on-demand grocery services, successfully meeting consumer needs during the pandemic.Despite its success, Deliveroo faces challenges regarding rider employment rights and market profitability.The future of Deliveroo’s role in the grocery market remains uncertain as it seeks to expand its convenience offerings.Deliveroo has transformed from a modest startup into a significant force within the convenience market, starting with its innovative restaurant delivery model. Spearheaded by Will Shu,…
As the cost-of-living crisis escalates, parents face increasing challenges in providing for their infants.Iceland Foods has reduced the price of baby formula by more than 20%, supporting parents.Research indicates that 86% of young parents are worried about the growing expenses of infant formula.Many parents believe supermarkets are not doing enough, leading to risky practices such as diluting formula.Iceland’s initiative is part of a £26m investment to lower prices across hundreds of products.In response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Iceland Foods has taken significant steps to support parents by reducing the price of baby formula by over 20%. This decision is…