Author: Sam Allcock

Clients previously with SSB Law face further turmoil as their cavity wall insulation claims are transferred once again, following the closure of the law firm that initially took over their cases.In a recent development, JMR Solicitors, the law firm that inherited the cavity wall insulation (CWI) cases from the defunct SSB Law, has announced its decision to exit the sector. This decision has resulted in the transfer of these case files to Hugh James, leaving clients with merely two days to find alternative legal representation if desired.The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) acknowledged the distress caused by the abrupt notice from…

A senior costs specialist who previously worked for a prominent law firm has lost his appeal against an employment tribunal’s decision that he was not unfairly dismissed nor harassed at work.Judge Bruce Carr KC, presiding over the Employment Appeal Tribunal, acknowledged that the original employment tribunal (ET) had erred in one aspect. However, he concluded it would not have affected the overall outcome. The former lawyer, Rob Moon, succeeded on a single ground, which was his claim of a right to appeal the redundancy decision. Despite this, the ET in 2021 ruled that awarding him damages was unjust as an…

John Lewis Partnership is projecting a promising profit increase after a challenging period. Key strategic initiatives are steering this positive outlook.The retail group has managed to reduce its pre-tax losses dramatically, suggesting improved financial health.A strategic push, including the revival of its price promise and AI integration, is boosting John Lewis’s market presence.Waitrose’s impressive sales growth highlights successful market strategies amidst easing inflation pressures.Store expansions and new formats across both brands aim to enhance customer experience and drive further growth.John Lewis Partnership has announced it is on track to see “significantly higher” profits this year. The group has managed to…

The past half year has seen a resurgence for John Lewis, with customers noticing a revitalised atmosphere.Despite a challenging market, the company managed to narrow its pre-tax losses significantly.Key investments and strategic partnerships have positioned the retailer for a potentially lucrative second half.Retail performance was mixed, with strong growth in beauty and children’s brands, albeit an overall sales dip.Technological advancements have enhanced customer satisfaction, with notable increases in shop satisfaction scores.The past half year has seen a resurgence for John Lewis, with customers noticing a revitalised atmosphere. Nish Kankiwala, CEO of John Lewis Partnership, announced a ‘marked improvement’ in the…

The Leeds Digital Festival has returned for its ninth year, spotlighting the city’s vibrant tech scene.Running from September 16-27, the festival features over 200 events across key venues in and around Leeds.Focal areas of the festival include AI, online safety, equality in tech, and smart cities.Stuart Clarke, the festival director, highlights Leeds’ growing digital economy and the festival’s role in fostering connections.The festival receives substantial support from sponsors, ensuring a diverse programme of events.The ninth iteration of the Leeds Digital Festival has made a prominent comeback, positioning Leeds at the centre of the digital map once again. With its reputation…

Aldi’s Choco Changer returns in collaboration with Tony’s Chocolonely, reinforcing ethical cocoa sourcing.The partnership follows a dispute between Tony’s Chocolonely and Lidl over similar chocolate designs.Aldi commits to sustainable cocoa sourcing, supporting Ghanaian and Ivorian farmers.The Choco Changer aims to promote responsible cocoa production in line with Tony’s Open Chain principles.Aldi’s goal is for all its cocoa products to be sustainably sourced by 2025.Aldi has reintroduced its own-brand chocolate bar, the Choco Changer, by partnering with the sustainable chocolate brand Tony’s Chocolonely. This collaboration comes after Tony’s Chocolonely criticised Lidl for producing a chocolate bar with a similar design, drawing…

Transport for London (TfL) has experienced a cyber attack potentially compromising customer bank details.The data breach occurred on 1 September, affecting customer names, contact details, and possibly bank numbers.A teenager has been arrested in connection with the cyber incident by the National Crime Agency.TfL works alongside the National Cyber Security Centre to investigate the extent of the data breach.TfL is implementing stricter security measures and advising affected customers accordingly.Transport for London (TfL) has disclosed a significant cyber attack that potentially compromised customer bank details. The incident, which occurred on 1 September, involved the unauthorised access of sensitive data including customer…

John Lewis has experienced a remarkable response to the reinstatement of its ‘Never Knowingly Undersold’ pledge.The price match policy was reinstated after a two-year hiatus, significantly boosting website traffic.AI technology is now utilised to ensure competitive pricing across major retailers.This revival precedes the launch of a joint loyalty initiative with Waitrose.The loyalty scheme aims to offer integrated benefits to customers across both brands.John Lewis has seen an exceptional reaction following the return of its renowned price match promise, ‘Never Knowingly Undersold’. New CEO, Peter Ruis, confirmed that the policy’s comeback has driven substantial traffic and sales. Since its revival, the…

Boots has appointed Anthony Hemmerdinger as the new Managing Director for the UK and Ireland, effective 4 November.Hemmerdinger, with over 30 years in the UK’s retail sector, has played a pivotal role in transforming Boots.Previously at Asda and M&S, Hemmerdinger has extensive experience in operations and strategy.Seb James, the outgoing Managing Director, was instrumental in expanding Boots’ beauty and healthcare services.The leadership transition follows Walgreens shelving plans for a multibillion-pound sale.Anthony Hemmerdinger has been named as the new Managing Director for Boots UK and Ireland, stepping into the position on 4 November. He replaces Seb James, who announced his departure…

The Supreme Court ruled against Tesco in a significant legal case concerning employee rights.Tesco’s attempt to alter employment contracts to remove ‘retained pay’ was judged unlawful.This decision concludes a major legal battle between Tesco and the Usdaw union.The ruling emphasises the protection of workers’ contractual rights in the UK.Tesco has acknowledged the decision while asserting its fairness towards employees.The UK Supreme Court has delivered a landmark ruling against Tesco, deciding that the company cannot unilaterally alter employment contracts to eliminate ‘retained pay’ benefits. This decision reinforces the legal protection afforded to workers’ contractual rights, marking a pivotal moment in employment…