Author: Sam Allcock

Consumer confidence in the United Kingdom is on a downward trend as the Autumn Budget approaches.A recent survey by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) highlights worsening consumer expectations for personal finances.Concerns about the UK’s economic situation have grown, as indicated by the latest BRC-Opinium data.While retail spending expectations slightly improved, overall personal spending has declined.The upcoming budget is seen as a crucial opportunity to restore confidence and stimulate investment.In light of the forthcoming Autumn Budget, consumer confidence in the UK has seen a notable decline. A survey conducted by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) alongside Opinium revealed worsening consumer expectations…

Not On The High Street and Deliveroo have launched a partnership for on-demand gift delivery across London.This collaboration aims to support at least 15 small brands initially, with more to be added as the initiative grows.The partnership is part of Deliveroo’s strategy to boost UK independent businesses by expanding their market reach.Customers can now access more than a thousand gifts and personalised items through this new service.Both companies highlight the potential for customers to find unique gifts for any occasion swiftly.In a forward-thinking move, Not On The High Street has partnered with Deliveroo to offer customers an innovative on-demand gift…

Co-op Legal Services (CLS) has emerged as the fastest-growing segment within the Co-operative Group, with a remarkable 35% increase in revenue in the first half of 2024, according to reports published recently. This growth highlights the significant impact of legal services on the group’s overall profitability.CLS, a groundbreaking alternative business structure since its licensing by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in 2012, reported a revenue of £42 million for the first half of the year, up from £31 million the previous year. Profits also saw a substantial increase of 56%, rising from £9 million to £14 million. This upward trend…

Frasers Group has embarked on a sweeping transformation by replacing House of Fraser with new, modern department stores.The latest store opened in Sheffield’s Meadowhall is a testimony to the new concept’s success.Key brands and innovative spaces highlight Frasers’ commitment to reimagining retail.Frasers differentiates itself by focusing on third-party global brands over own-brands.There is a strategic shift, including new partnerships and store layouts, to enhance consumer experience.Frasers Group is actively transforming its retail concept by phasing out the House of Fraser brand. The group, led by Mike Ashley, has introduced its 13th Frasers store at Sheffield’s Meadowhall Shopping Centre, marking a…

John Lewis has opened Christmas shops in 35 stores as it enters the festive period, offering a range of decorations and activities.Customers can find a variety of products, including trees, baubles, gifting items, and wreaths in newly dedicated Christmas areas.This year marks the first time all Christmas foliage is displayed together in stores, enhancing the shopping experience.New festive activities include Quality Street pick and mix and Lego workshops in select stores, adding fun for families.Personalised gifting options, like Tony’s Chocoloney gift boxes, make their debut this year.John Lewis has officially launched its Christmas shops in 35 of its stores, welcoming…

Independent marketplace Trouva is currently experiencing delays in payments to its partnered retailers, sparking concerns among its community.The delays, initially communicated in August, have been attributed to issues with funding rounds.A second apology was issued in September, acknowledging the ongoing impact on some businesses.Some retailers are contemplating legal action due to the continued delays.The situation follows Trouva’s acquisition by Fy! in July, marking its third change of ownership in two years.Independent marketplace Trouva, a London-based company connecting over 650 brick-and-mortar boutiques across the UK and Europe, is facing scrutiny due to delayed payments to its partnered retailers. The company first…

Lidl’s top executive Martin Kottbauer steps down after nearly three decades, amidst a major organisational restructure.Kottbauer’s departure follows a strategic initiative to streamline executive roles within Lidl.His responsibilities will merge into the broader duties of the chief commercial officer, Richard Bourns.The organisational changes aim to simplify operational management at the upper echelons of Lidl.This role consolidation reflects a trend of reshaping leadership in the broader retail industry.Martin Kottbauer, Lidl’s esteemed chief trading officer, has announced his departure after dedicating 28 years to the supermarket chain. This move is part of a significant restructuring effort within Lidl, which seeks to streamline…

The Entertainer is launching its largest recruitment drive ever, seeking over 1000 seasonal workers to meet holiday demand.Roles are available across 160 UK stores and 130 Tesco concessions, offering varied hours.Positions range from 8 to 20 hours weekly, with stock roles increasing to 37.5 hours nearing Christmas.CEO Andrew Murphy cites significant growth and excitement within the company as key motivators.Candidates with a passion for toys are encouraged to bring festive cheer to stores during the holiday season.The Entertainer, a prominent toy retailer, has initiated an unprecedented recruitment campaign, aiming to hire more than 1000 seasonal employees. This decision comes as…

Boots introduces its largest beauty campaign yet, targeting under-35s with over 25 exciting new brands.The ‘make more room for beauty’ initiative encourages embracing beauty products in daily life.British talent, including Freema Agyeman, stars in various campaign films and social media shorts.Expansive campaign strategies include TV, YouTube, print, digital, and PR across multiple channels.Boots is transforming 170 stores to accommodate more beauty brands and innovations.In an ambitious move, Boots has launched its most extensive beauty marketing campaign to date, aiming to reach the younger demographic, particularly those under 35. The campaign, coined ‘make more room for beauty’, is set to introduce…

Co-op is making strategic moves to expand its presence in the UK with plans to open 120 new stores over the next 18 months.The company’s return to profit signals financial stability and ambition to ‘grow at scale.’Matt Hood, Co-op Food’s managing director, emphasises a proactive strategy in acquiring new sites.Co-op aims to improve existing stores and adopt successful models across varying store sizes and market routes.The integration of self-checkouts remains a priority for enhanced customer convenience.In a significant development for the UK’s retail sector, Co-op has announced its intention to open 120 new stores within the next 18 months. This…