Author: Sam Allcock

Financial markets are reacting swiftly to political changes in the US.The British pound has declined by 1.4% against the US dollar.Following Donald Trump’s election victory, US stock futures are experiencing significant gains.Treasury yields in the United States have increased due to anticipated fiscal policies.Cryptocurrencies witness a surge, with Bitcoin reaching a new record.The financial landscape has been notably impacted by Donald Trump’s return to the White House. The British pound saw a significant drop, declining 1.4% against the US dollar. This currency movement reflects investor unease amid changing political dynamics and potential economic shifts.Simultaneously, US and UK stock markets have…

In a noteworthy partnership, Waitrose has once again joined forces with British fashion designer Lulu Guinness for their 2024 Christmas gifting range. This collaboration, marking their third joint venture, promises a collection that combines style and sustainability.Waitrose and Lulu Guinness have expanded their creative partnership with a new Christmas collection set for 2024. The collaboration is already generating interest with its eco-friendly approach and fashionable designs. The first item in this anticipated range is a tote bag, priced at £15, crafted from recycled plastic bottles and featuring Lulu Guinness’s distinctive lip design. This tote also includes two woven strap lengths,…

Waitrose has once again joined forces with renowned British designer Lulu Guinness to unveil a new Christmas gifting collection for 2024. This marks their third successful collaboration, featuring a blend of style and sustainability.Available both online and in physical stores of Waitrose and John Lewis, the latest collection introduces a tote bag crafted from recycled plastic bottles, priced at £15. The design is characterised by the distinctive Lulu lips motif and features two different lengths of woven straps, enhancing its practical appeal.Alongside the tote, the collection is set to expand by the end of November, with the introduction of a…

A significant dispute has arisen regarding the Haigh Hall renovation project in Wigan after contract termination of its creative directors.Al Holmes and Al Taylor were informed their contracts would not be renewed, leaving the project halfway through.Community backlash ensued, with a petition demanding the reinstatement of the directors gaining momentum.The Major family also withdrew their collaboration due to concerns over the council’s project management.Council officials have responded, expressing gratitude for the directors’ contributions but defending their decision.A row has erupted over the future of the Haigh Hall regeneration project in Wigan, following the decision not to renew the contracts of…

Former Inc & Co executives face jail time for court order violations.The three were accused of illicitly moving £13.7m from Barclays accounts.They were found guilty of contempt for breaking asset-freezing directives.Misuse of funds for personal gains and offshore transfers were highlighted.Insolvency Service to seek disqualification of one of the involved parties.In a notable legal development, former executives of Inc & Co, a private equity group, have been handed prison sentences of 22 months each. This follows their deliberate breach of court orders related to allegations of extracting £13.7 million from Barclays bank accounts unlawfully.The individuals in question, Scott Dylan, David…

The latest Budget imposes significant cost increases for UK businesses.Wetherspoons warns customers of potential pint price hikes.The Budget includes a rise in National Insurance contributions, adding financial pressure.Alcohol duties increased, but draught drinks see some relief.Wetherspoons reports a modest sales increase but warns of future challenges.The recent Budget announcement has introduced substantial cost increases for businesses across the UK, affecting the hospitality sector notably. JD Wetherspoon, a prominent pub chain, has alerted its patrons to the possibility of rising pint prices due to these new financial burdens.Founder Sir Tim Martin highlighted the impact of rising employer National Insurance (NI) contributions…

The redevelopment of Crompton Place in Bolton is a significant step in the town’s regeneration efforts.A demolition contractor is soon to be appointed to progress the revamp of the shopping centre.Bolton Council is presenting a report to select a developer partner, emphasising transparency and competitiveness.The redevelopment aims to transform the area into a dynamic town centre with a focus on high-quality retail and public spaces.Current tenants will be relocated, with Primark moving to Market Place by the end of November.The redevelopment of Crompton Place is making headway with the anticipated appointment of a demolition contractor. This move is pivotal for…

In a significant move impacting the legal landscape, a prominent city law firm has introduced a consultancy service to provide regulatory advice to investors interested in the UK and international legal markets.The legal profession is witnessing notable changes as external investments increase. Several announcements signal this growth, and a city-based firm, Kingsley Napley, aims to meet the demand with the launch of a new service. Through a consultancy named Stratify, the firm intends to provide strategic regulatory advice to private equity firms and other potential investors keen on entering the legal field.Iain Miller, a partner at Kingsley Napley known for…

Philip Browne, a premium menswear store in Norwich, is closing after 38 years following Frasers Group’s acquisition.Opened in 1986 by Philip Browne, the store introduced high-end fashion brands to Norwich.Frasers Group has been acquiring independent boutiques, leading to closures across the UK.The future of the Norwich retail site remains uncertain as the store continues operations for now.Frasers declined to comment on the rationale behind the store closures.Philip Browne, a well-known menswear retailer in Norwich, is set to close its doors after 38 years. This follows the acquisition of the store by Frasers Group, a move that has led to a…

M&S confronts a £60m rise in National Insurance costs after recent Budget changes, aiming to absorb these without increasing prices.CEO Stuart Machin reassures that cost reductions will be the strategy for managing new financial pressures.The announced rate increases and threshold adjustments cause the financial strain M&S aims to navigate.The retailer’s commitment to value is highlighted by its refusal to pass costs to consumers despite economic challenges.M&S has improved its profit margins, highlighting successful market share growth in both clothing and food sectors.M&S is navigating a significant financial challenge with a £60 million increase in their National Insurance bill, following recent…