Author: Sam Allcock

Tesco has successfully concluded the sale of its banking arm, marking the beginning of a significant 10-year partnership with Barclays.This exclusive collaboration will enable customers to access Tesco-branded banking products and services, leveraging Tesco’s expansive brand presence alongside Barclays’ prowess in financial services. The alliance aims to craft new and innovative products under Tesco’s bank brand, further enhancing customer experience.The High Court of Justice of England and Wales gave the green light to Tesco’s banking business transfer scheme application on 17 October. Consequently, as of 1 November, the ownership of these operations has officially transferred to Barclays.Tesco will maintain its…

Carlsberg has reported a decline in its third-quarter volumes, highlighting the impact of trying consumer conditions and unfavourable weather.The Danish brewing giant experienced a 1.3% rise in global organic sales growth, yet noted a 0.2% drop in organic volume in the same period. The company was particularly affected in its premium beer sector, where volumes decreased by 0.5%. In contrast, there was positive movement in other areas, with alcohol-free brews increasing by 6% and soft drinks by 4%. Notably, Carlsberg’s international premium brands saw an impressive 11% rise in organic volume, with the flagship brand leading the surge.Carlsberg’s CEO, Jacob…

Sainsbury’s is making waves this festive season, launching its 2024 Christmas advert featuring the cherished character, the BFG, as the first UK supermarket to unveil their holiday campaign.The advert, set to air tonight, follows the journey of the BFG and ‘Sophie’, a real Sainsbury’s employee, as they traverse the country in pursuit of fresh, quality food. Their quest takes them to various suppliers, culminating in a display of delicious offerings such as salmon, Brussels sprouts, and Stilton cheese on a dining table filled with Sainsbury’s signature dishes. As the advert closes, Stephen Fry extends an invitation to customers, suggesting they…

Sainsbury’s has launched its much-anticipated 2024 Christmas advertisement, spotlighting Roald Dahl’s iconic character, the Big Friendly Giant (BFG), as part of a festive narrative aimed at engaging viewers nationwide. Released on both social media platforms and major TV channels, this advert presents a unique blend of nostalgia and holiday spirit.In the opening scene, the BFG is seen in the midst of preparing a notorious ‘snozzcumber,’ questioning how to elevate the festive experience this Christmas. Here, the BFG seeks assistance from Sainsbury’s, bridging the whimsical world of Roald Dahl with the practical essence of holiday preparations.The storyline progresses as the BFG…

Beginning tomorrow, Poundland will enhance its affordable pricing strategy by adding 500 essential grocery items to its £1 range.By expanding its product line to 1,500 items, Poundland aims to provide budget-conscious consumers with greater access to affordable everyday essentials. This includes reductions on staples such as two litres of milk, Kingsmill and Brace’s bread, and a six-pack of free-range eggs, all offered at the fixed price of £1.The initiative extends beyond dry goods, as the retailer is set to introduce fresh produce stands in over 520 UK stores, featuring £1 priced fruits like apples and oranges. This move is a…

In a significant move, Poundland is set to expand its product range with an additional 500 items priced at £1 or less, enhancing its position in the grocery market.Starting tomorrow, 1 November, the popular discount retailer will increase its offering from 1,000 to 1,500 items, focusing on essential grocery products. Among these, customers will find staples such as two-litre milk, Kingsmill and Brace’s bread, and a six-pack of free-range eggs, all for just £1. This strategic addition aims to provide consumers with affordable daily necessities during a time when household budgets are increasingly constrained.The expansion includes the introduction of fresh…

BBC Studios will continue to produce the iconic children’s programme Blue Peter until 2027.The competitive tender process for the production deal was launched in February, seeking bids for the show from April 2025.The contract, worth £2m annually, ensures a minimum of 20 hours of production each year.There was speculation about the show’s location as the tender did not specify production location beyond ‘outside London.’Blue Peter remains a beloved children’s programme, inspiring young viewers for over six decades.BBC Studios has successfully retained the contract to produce the renowned children’s television programme, Blue Peter, securing the role until 2027. The decision followed…

Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (HBC) has reported impressive sales growth in its third quarter, prompting an upgrade to its full-year forecast.The recent financial results of Coca-Cola HBC highlight a notable increase in organic sales by 13.9%, with a rise in volume of 4%. This growth was prominently driven by strategic priority categories. Sparkling beverages increased by 3.9%, energy drinks saw a surge of 28%, and coffee recorded a substantial growth of 35.6%. These figures signify the company’s successful investment strategies and the impact of innovative products.The company’s focus on innovation has played a crucial role in these achievements. Among the…

In a significant development, Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (HBC) has reported robust sales growth in its third quarter, prompting it to revise its full-year forecast upwards.Coca-Cola HBC, one of the largest bottlers of the renowned beverage brand, experienced a remarkable 13.9% increase in organic sales, driven by a 4% rise in volumes. This surge was notably fuelled by priority categories, including sparkling drinks, which grew by 3.9%, energy drinks with a 28% increase, and coffee, which saw a substantial rise of 35.6%.The company’s strategic investments in its portfolio during the third quarter paid off significantly. Innovations such as the introduction…

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has seen a reshuffle with new members joining its ranks.Rochdale MP Paul Waugh, with a background in political journalism, is now on the committee.The committee now includes seven Labour MPs, two Conservatives, and two Liberal Democrats.Conservative MP Caroline Dinenage retains her role as the committee’s chair.Notable changes include the introduction of Natasha Irons from Croydon, a former media manager.The Culture, Media and Sport Committee in the House of Commons has recently seen a reshuffle, welcoming new members including Rochdale’s Labour MP, Paul Waugh. Waugh, previously a political editor and with experience at notable publications…