Author: Sam Allcock

In the evolving grocery landscape, the entrance of discounters is reshaping the market dynamics.Variety discounters have broadened their product lines into chilled and frozen foods, directly competing with supermarkets.Amidst economic challenges, discounters attract cost-conscious consumers, potentially threatening traditional retailers.Supermarkets are responding with competitive pricing strategies to retain customer loyalty and market share.The expansion of discounters poses unique challenges to local and convenience stores, altering consumer shopping habits.The rise of discounters like Poundland and B&M into the grocery sector marks a significant shift in retail strategy. These retailers are not only expanding into ambient groceries but also venturing into chilled and…

Aldi is implementing a new trial to significantly reduce plastic usage in its packaging processes by up to 73%. This initiative focuses on procuring vacuum and flow-wrap packed beef mince, seeking consumer preference and environmental benefits. The packaging eliminates the need for paper linings, enhancing freshness and shelf-life. Initial responses in similar trials were mixed, influencing Aldi’s strategy.Aldi is undertaking a trial of vacuum and flow-wrap packed beef mince, aiming to cut plastic use by as much as 73%. This novel initiative not only seeks to identify the preferred customer packaging but also aligns with the retailer’s ongoing efforts to…

Arla Foods has adjusted its revenue forecasts due to changing consumer preferences and market conditions.Supermarkets report increased demand for own-label dairy products amidst ongoing cost-of-living challenges.Arla’s revenue projection has been revised down significantly, under the impact of declining milk prices.The company’s profits have diminished drastically compared to the previous year due to external economic pressures.Efforts to remain competitive include price reductions and sustainable packaging initiatives.Arla Foods has recently amended its annual revenue predictions, attributing this revision to a notable shift in consumer buying habits and evolving market scenarios. Supermarkets have observed a growing preference among consumers for own-brand dairy products,…

Müller Milk & Ingredients is taking significant steps towards reducing carbon emissions within its HGV fleet.The company is trialling solar and kinetic energy for refrigerated trailers to replace diesel reliance.Collaborations with Sunswap and Carrier Transicold are central to this innovative approach.The solar-battery system and kinetic energy conversion aim to eliminate diesel and traditional carbon emissions.The trials will assess if renewable sources can maintain the exceptional Müller service quality.Müller Milk & Ingredients, a prominent player in the dairy industry, is embarking on a forward-thinking initiative to cut down the carbon footprint of its heavy goods vehicle (HGV) fleet. The company is…

Iceland has launched over 500 new products available online and in-store, showcasing a mix of own-label and branded items.The new product range includes items from well-known brands like Cathedral City, TGI Fridays, and Mars, broadening Iceland’s offerings.Customers can now enjoy unique meals and treats, such as BBQ pulled pork meal kits and toffee apple cheesecakes.Iceland introduces exclusive items like vegan chicken strips and American hot loaded doughballs to their growing selection.Andrew Staniland emphasises Iceland’s commitment to value and variety, aiming to support families across the UK.Iceland has made a significant expansion to its product range, launching over 500 new items…

Allegations surface against Iceland regarding financial transfers before selling its Irish division.Metron Stores accuses Iceland of moving over £1.37m out of the Irish division pre-sale.An additional £772,476 was allegedly transferred from sales a week before deal completion.Metron claims an unpaid debt of £2.23m could have been settled with the transferred funds.Iceland considers a defamation claim, stating all debts were settled as of the sale date.Iceland faces scrutiny following allegations from Metron Stores, the owner of its Irish division, accusing it of moving substantial funds out of the business before its sale. According to these claims, over £1.37 million was transferred…

Arnold Schwarzenegger has partnered with Lidl to represent its Parkside DIY tool range, enhancing the brand’s outreach.The Hollywood star and ex-governor promotes over 100 products in a new advertising campaign.Schwarzenegger’s role will include appearances in both television and social media advertisements.The collaboration celebrates Schwarzenegger’s past experiences as a bricklayer.Lidl’s initiative is part of a broader celebration of its 50th anniversary in Germany.Lidl has recently announced a new collaboration with Arnold Schwarzenegger as the brand ambassador for its Parkside DIY tool range. This partnership sees the acclaimed actor and former governor of California endorsing a vast collection of over 100 products,…

The UK’s food inflation rate has hit the lowest point in almost a year.Food inflation fell to 11.5% in August, down from 13.4% in July.Shop price inflation saw a decline from 8.4% to 6.9%.Fresh food inflation significantly decreased to 11.6%.Economic factors continue to influence retail prices despite improvements.The UK’s food inflation has reached its lowest point in almost a year. August figures show a drop to 11.5%, an improvement from July’s 13.4%, as recorded by the British Retail Consortium. This marks a significant easing in the accelerated price increases experienced over the previous months.Shop price inflation, overall, has seen a…

A host of supermarkets have reduced prices to ease the financial strains faced by consumers.Asda has made significant investments to lower prices on hundreds of products, with discounts averaging 11%.Sainsbury’s has expanded its price match campaign, including frozen foods, as inflation slows.Ocado’s initiative focuses on helping parents save as the school term restarts, with reductions on key items.Iceland and Aldi have launched extensive price-cut schemes, targeting summer savings and essential products.In a bid to alleviate the financial pressure on consumers, numerous supermarkets have undertaken substantial price cuts. The action is aimed at helping households manage their budgets more effectively as…

Retailers in Northern Ireland, including Asda, are now displaying ‘Not for EU’ labels on select products.The labels are a result of the Windsor Framework, a post-Brexit trade agreement.Asda has started implementing these labels earlier than the October deadline.Businesses are concerned about the additional costs and compliance issues.The UK government plans a phased introduction of these requirements.Retailers in Northern Ireland are facing a new challenge as ‘Not for EU’ labels begin appearing on meat and dairy products. These labels, prominently seen at Asda stores, aim to streamline the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This change is part…