Author: Sam Allcock

The Labour Party has unveiled its manifesto, promising significant reforms for fashion retail ahead of the upcoming general election on 4 July.One major proposal is to replace the current business rates system with a fairer alternative aimed at encouraging high street investment.Retail crime will be addressed with new offences specifically protective of shopworkers, tackling lenience in existing penalty thresholds.Labour commits to enhancing youth employment opportunities, ensuring access to training, apprenticeships, job search support, and work experience.A shift in trade agreements is planned, seeking alliances with India and the Gulf, yet refraining from rejoining the EU single market.The Labour Party has…

Walker Foster Solicitors commemorate their 105th anniversary by organising a charity walk.The firm raised £700 to support The Principle Trust, aiding underprivileged children.Over 37,000 steps were logged by participants on their journey from Skipton to Silsden.The event strengthens Walker Foster’s ongoing partnership with The Principle Trust.The Principle Trust has provided respite holidays for over 5,000 children since 2011.In celebration of a significant milestone, Walker Foster Solicitors chose a unique way to mark their 105th anniversary. They traded their professional attire for walking boots to take part in a charity walk aimed at raising funds for The Principle Trust, an organisation…

As technology evolves, so do the manners surrounding its use, including communication via phone.A recent survey highlights that 92% of Britons find eating during calls unacceptable.Younger generations display more flexibility regarding call timings and etiquette.Gender influences perceptions of acceptable call times, with men being more lenient about early morning calls.Experts suggest maintaining courtesy through greetings and undivided attention during calls.The evolution of phone etiquette has sparked significant interest, highlighting that certain behaviours may no longer align with modern expectations. A YouGov survey involving 2,000 British adults identified a resounding 92% who find eating or chewing during a phone call inappropriate.…

In a significant move by the UK high street, a major retailer has pledged to keep school uniform prices unchanged for the fourth consecutive year. This commitment comes amid growing economic concerns among families ahead of the back-to-school season.Since 2021, the retailer has maintained the prices of key school uniform items, offering parents financial predictability.The company is set to introduce a 20% early-bird discount starting 2 July, providing further savings opportunities.Over 100 stores nationwide will also feature products from well-known third-party brands, expanding parents’ shopping choices.New dedicated school uniform advisers in more than 120 stores reflect a £1 million investment…

Recent studies reveal growing dissatisfaction among employees towards hybrid work policies.A significant 20% of workers consider quitting due to dissatisfaction with current hybrid work setups.UK companies find it challenging to balance productivity and employee adaptability in hybrid environments.Many organisations lack the necessary digital tools and training to support effective hybrid work.A substantial portion of employees feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of productivity applications.Recent data reveal that a notable 20% of employees are contemplating leaving their jobs because of dissatisfaction with hybrid work policies. According to Lucid Software’s Hybrid Workplace Whiplash survey, the failure to implement suitable digital tools has…

A recent report exposes growing burnout among UK workers, highlighting alarming levels of mental and physical exhaustion.Around 44% of UK workers report feeling exhausted at the end of their workday, primarily due to excessive workloads.AI is perceived to offer potential benefits in various industries, with positive sentiments from 31% of surveyed workers.Younger employees and managers are showing a keen interest in upgrading their AI skills, particularly for healthcare applications.A significant gap exists in awareness about Employee Assistance Programs, affecting employee mental health scores.In a concerning revelation, 44% of the UK’s workforce is experiencing significant exhaustion by the end of their…

Superdry has taken a decisive step towards securing its future by gaining overwhelming support from its creditors.A significant 99% of creditors have voted in favour of Superdry’s proposed restructuring plan, a critical endorsement for the fashion retailer.This plan includes crucial measures such as rent reduction for struggling stores and a potential equity raise from the CEO, Julian Dunkerton.Shareholders are set to vote on these pivotal changes, including the firm’s delisting from the stock market, in an upcoming meeting.The High Court is expected to review the restructuring proposal following these essential votes, marking a busy period for the company.Superdry has achieved…

Alo Yoga is strengthening its presence in London with a strategic expansion plan.The former Ted Baker premises in Knightsbridge will open as Alo Yoga’s third UK store.The expansion includes a new store in Covent Garden and another on Regent Street with a wellness focus.Property demand in London is rising, making Alo Yoga’s growth a timely move.The brand’s entrance into Knightsbridge and Covent Garden is seen as enhancing these retail landscapes.Alo Yoga, a renowned US athleisure brand, is extending its reach in London by acquiring prime retail space. The brand’s most recent acquisition is the former Ted Baker store situated in…

A recent survey highlights a cautious yet positive hiring trend in the UK.UK’s employment outlook remains high despite a slight quarterly decline.Nearly half of employers plan to hire workers aged 25 and under this quarter.Challenges persist in engaging younger employees with less than ten years of experience.Addressing intergenerational equity and technology adoption is crucial to future workforce success.The latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey sheds light on the UK hiring landscape for the third quarter, revealing a cautious yet positive intent among employers. Despite a minor three-percentage point decline, the UK’s Net Employment Outlook remains robust at +20%, surpassing the EMEA…

Demand for retail space in London has significantly increased, showing a 25% rise year on year.The first quarter saw 356 active store requirements, up from 284 the previous year, equating to nearly 1,000,000 sq ft of space.The food and beverage sector led with 146 requirements, followed by fashion and leisure sectors.London’s appeal continues to attract both established brands and new international names.Pop-up space demand has decreased, reflecting renewed confidence in permanent retail space.Recent research illustrates a notable 25% growth in demand for retail space in London, with 356 active store requirements recorded in the first quarter alone. This marks a…