Author: Sam Allcock

Retail sales in food stores have seen a significant decline, raising concerns about consumer spending habits in a challenging economic climate.Sales volumes for food stores dropped by 2.6% in July, following a slight increase in June.The decline has been attributed to ongoing cost-of-living pressures and unfavourable weather conditions.Online shopping reached its highest level since February 2022, accounting for 27.4% of retail sales.Economists express concerns over the outlook of consumer spending due to various economic challenges.Retail sales volumes for food stores fell by 2.6% in July, a reversal from the 1.1% increase observed in June. This decline reflects significant cost-of-living pressures…

This Saturday marks a landmark event for M&S, with 5,000 customers set to enjoy free shopping through the ‘Sparks Super Saturday’ competition.The initiative enhances the already popular Sparks rewards programme by scaling it to an unprecedented level.Participants need to scan their Sparks card in store or log in online to stand a chance of winning.This promotional event reflects M&S’s ongoing strategy to expand its market presence and increase customer engagement.Aldi is joining the trend with its own giveaway via Facebook, echoing the competitive landscape of the retail sector.This Saturday, M&S is poised to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience by allowing 5,000…

The Groceries Code Adjudicator has issued a stern warning to supermarkets over unethical supplier fees. The advisory follows concerns related to ‘pay to stay’ tactics. Tesco’s recent supplier fulfilment fees sparked industry concerns. Retailers are urged to document compliance with the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP). Suppliers express frustrations over restrictive investment demands.The Groceries Code Adjudicator, Mark White, has delivered a firm reminder to supermarkets, urging them to reassess their practices concerning ‘pay to stay’ demands on suppliers. This follows reports suggesting that some retailers, notably Tesco, have introduced new fulfilment fees requiring suppliers to contribute financially to retain…

Asda embarks on a forward-thinking trial of its ‘Food Hub’, offering a diverse range of food-to-go options.The initial trial is set to unfold in Leicester and Dagenham stores, introducing barista-style coffee and fresh grab-and-go meals.The initiative aims to cater to varying meal times with its adaptable offering of breakfast, lunch, and snacks.Should the trial succeed, Asda plans broader implementation to boost store footfall.Aesthetic enhancements include modernised stores with tech integration, such as touch screen ordering.Asda has commenced a food-to-go trial under the banner of ‘Asda Food Hub’. Initially, this trial is taking place in Asda’s Leicester and Dagenham locations. These…

Branded food products have seen significant price increases over the past year.Tesco’s Mr Kipling Chocolate Slices led the surge with a 129% increase.Sainsbury’s Mr Kipling Bakewell Cake Slices reported a 99% price hike.Lancashire Farm yoghurts at Asda rose by 80% year-on-year.Morrisons saw a 76% increase for Pilgrims Choice Extra Mature Cheddar.The cost of branded food products has escalated notably over the past year. According to a study by the consumer rights organisation, Which?, significant price hikes were observed across major UK supermarkets, including Asda, Aldi, Morrisons, Lidl, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, and Tesco.At the forefront of this inflationary trend, Tesco’s Mr…

Harrods has reported impressive gains in profit and revenue for the year ending 28 January 2023.The luxury department store’s turnover increased by 52% year on year, reaching £994.1 million, though still shy of pre-pandemic levels.Operating profit more than doubled compared to 2021, indicating a robust recovery amidst easing international travel restrictions.The store’s Gross Transaction Value exceeded 2019 figures, highlighting strong trading performance.Strategic investments and innovative offerings have positioned Harrods favourably within the market.Harrods has experienced a notable rise in profit and revenue for the year leading to 28 January 2023. Turnover jumped significantly, rising by 52% year on year to…

A UK health group urges removal of child-targeted packaging on sugary cereals and yoghurts.Research reveals excessive sugar content in products marketed to children.Supermarkets criticised for encouraging sugar consumption among youth.Health advocates demand compliance with nutritional guidelines for packaging.Brands respond by highlighting efforts to reduce sugar content in products.In the United Kingdom, a prominent health advocacy organisation has made a significant call to action regarding the packaging of sugary breakfast foods. It has recommended the removal of any packaging that is designed to appeal to children, specifically targeting breakfast cereals and yoghurts that are high in sugars, salt, or saturated fat.…

In response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Tesco is revamping its Express stores with cheaper own-brand alternatives.The initiative entails replacing over 50 everyday items with options from Tesco’s own brand, promising substantial savings.Research indicates a lack of budget grocery lines in vulnerable UK areas, driving this strategic change.By the end of August, the transition in Tesco Express stores is anticipated to accommodate these new, cost-effective products.Tesco aims to make healthy food more accessible to the 2,000 communities served by its Express stores.In response to the financial strain faced by many, Tesco is executing a significant overhaul in its Express stores.…

Tesco’s commitment to net-zero targets has been officially validated, marking a significant achievement in sustainability efforts.The UK retailer aims for carbon neutrality in its operations by 2035 and across its value chain by 2050.Tesco’s six focal areas for emissions reduction are improving products, transport decarbonisation, store emissions reduction, sustainable consumption, waste elimination, and nature protection.Notable achievements include adopting renewable energy and launching electric heavy goods vehicles.Tesco plans to further reduce plastic waste by discontinuing certain products.Tesco has been recognised for its comprehensive plan to achieve net-zero emissions, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). This makes it one of…

The recent surge in orange juice prices is attributed to a devastating hurricane and widespread crop disease in Florida.A substantial increase in the price of oranges has been reported, reaching unprecedented levels due to adverse weather conditions.Florida’s citrus production has plummeted to its lowest output in over a century, significantly impacting the orange juice market.The United Kingdom faces additional strain from these price increases due to its reliance on imported citrus products.Industry experts express concern over future orange juice supply if current weather and disease trends persist.The recent hike in orange juice prices can be directly linked to the catastrophic…