Author: Sam Allcock

Nestlé is taking steps towards inclusivity by launching accessible QR codes on popular confectionery brands.These QR codes are designed to assist those with sight loss in accessing product details with ease.Utilising Zappar technology, the codes will be available on KitKat and Quality Street packaging.The initiative aims to provide crucial information such as allergens and dietary requirements.The collaboration with RNIB underscores the importance of accessible packaging in the industry.Nestlé has introduced a forward-thinking initiative aimed at aiding the visually impaired by integrating accessible QR codes on their KitKat and Quality Street products. These codes are powered by Zappar technology, a tool…

Sainsbury’s is stepping up its sustainability efforts with new bakery packaging aimed at reducing plastic waste by 90%.Plastic clam-shell packaging for doughnuts and pastries is being replaced by more sustainable cardboard and paper options.In-store bakery bread will transition to partially recyclable bags, contributing to a significant 60% plastic reduction.These changes are set to prevent 414 tonnes of plastic waste annually.The move follows Sainsbury’s recent initiatives, including transitioning to cardboard packaging for own-brand mushrooms.Sainsbury’s has made a bold move in its sustainability campaign by introducing new packaging for its in-store bakery products, aiming for a 90% reduction in plastic waste. Doughnuts…

Britain’s leading cycling retailer, Halfords, embarks on a significant shift by enhancing its premium bicycle range, targeting the growing high-end market.The premium cycling sector is expanding rapidly, creating an opportunity that Halfords aims to seize by doubling its offerings.Halfords plans to increase its high-end mechanical bikes by 60% and triple its premium electric bike selections.Key additions include the full-carbon Boardman and Voodoo Canzo Pro models, amplifying Halfords’ appeal in the premium segment.The retailer is introducing initiatives like free in-store services and interest-free plans to make high-end bikes more accessible.Britain’s largest cycling retailer, Halfords, is taking a significant step into the…

Halfords is set to expand its premium cycling range significantly, entering the fast-growing niche of high-end bicycles.The company plans to increase its premium mechanical bicycle offerings by 60% and its premium electric bicycle range by 300%.It aims to make high-end bikes more accessible by offering free in-store bike assembly and interest-free payment plans.This strategic shift follows a period of declining profits due to challenging market conditions.Halfords’ new focus includes expanding popular ranges like Boardman and Voodoo, with plans for even more luxury models in 2025.The UK’s largest cycling retailer, Halfords, is making a decisive move into the high-end cycling market,…

Waitrose has launched the BrandsNew programme, aiming to invest over £2 million in its debut year to attract new brands.This initiative will utilise Waitrose’s Branded Innovation team, RangeMe platform, and YF consultancy to support new brands.Successful applicants will receive guidance in overcoming the hurdles of supplying to supermarkets.BrandsNew is part of Waitrose’s strategy to offer customers ‘Food to Feel Good About’.The programme is now operational, marking a new chapter in Waitrose’s tradition of fostering emerging brands.Waitrose has unveiled its BrandsNew programme, a strategic initiative that sees the high-end supermarket chain investing more than £2 million to discover and nurture new…

Next is launching a high-end fashion website, Seasons, to expand its premium offerings.Seasons will include brands like A.P.C, Ganni, and Marc Jacobs before Christmas.This move builds on Next’s success with the Reiss brand, now a key performer.Next aims to cater to its premium customers by enhancing their online shopping experience.Frasers Group’s Flannels faces competition from Next’s fashionable venture.Next is set to introduce a new luxury fashion platform named Seasons, scheduled for release before the Christmas season. The platform will feature an array of prestigious brands, including A.P.C, Ganni, Joseph, Marc Jacobs, Rixo, and Veja. This initiative is designed to capitalise…

Next’s strategic move to launch ‘Seasons’ reflects rising demand for premium products.The new fashion site will include luxury brands like A.P.C, Ganni, and Marc Jacobs.Increased interest in mid and high-end market segments drives Next’s decision.The retail giant’s Reiss acquisition showed significant potential in this market.Next aims to compete with Flannels’ premium lifestyle offerings.Next has announced the launch of a new premium branded fashion website, Seasons, set to provide customers with access to renowned luxury brands such as A.P.C, Ganni, Joseph, Marc Jacobs, Rixo, and Veja. This new venture, expected to be live before the Christmas season, seeks to build on…

Over 20 former Harrods employees have accused Mohamed Al Fayed of serious misconduct, causing widespread shock.Al Fayed’s alleged actions have been described as deeply predatory, involving coercion and manipulation.Five women specifically allege that they were raped by Al Fayed, highlighting the severity of the accusations.A BBC documentary has brought these accusations to light, spanning incidents in multiple international locations.Harrods has publicly distanced itself from Al Fayed’s alleged actions, acknowledging past failures.More than twenty women, previously employed at Harrods, have accused Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of the department store, of rape and sexual assault. These allegations have resurfaced, painting…

Cardiff-based Alesi Surgical secures £5m to boost global sales of its innovative surgical smoke technology.The funding was led by Mercia Ventures with existing backers, raising Alesi’s total funds to over £21m.FDA clearance for IonPencil marks a breakthrough in routine surgery smoke management, covering 80% of procedures.New regulations in 18 US states highlight the growing importance of smoke management technology in surgeries.Alesi’s technology, proven superior to alternatives, aims to secure more regulations and expand into Europe and Japan.Alesi Surgical, a medtech company originating from Cardiff University, has successfully raised £5m to further its global expansion plans. This recent equity round involved…

Insured private health admissions have experienced significant growth, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and setting new records.Admissions funded by private medical insurance (PMI) have reached unprecedented figures, with Q4 2023 and Q1 2024 marking consecutive record quarters.The latest data indicates that employers are increasingly turning to private health solutions to reduce the burden on the NHS.Corporate investments in health solutions are proving essential as insured admissions rise significantly above self-pay methods.The trend highlights the growing importance of private healthcare options in addressing the operational challenges faced by the NHS.Private medical insurance (PMI) admissions have continued their upward trajectory, achieving record numbers in…