Author: Sam Allcock

Elie Saab, the renowned Lebanese designer, has announced a new addition to its team, Greek-Austrian designer Marina Raphael. Known for her own luxury handbag brand, Raphael brings fresh creative vision to Elie Saab’s handbag division.She is appointed as the artistic and design director, tasked with bringing innovative collections to the luxury fashion house.Raphael will develop four ready-to-wear and two haute couture handbag collections every year.Her debut work is scheduled to be showcased at the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris in January 2025.Elie Saab, a leading name in the Lebanese fashion industry, has hired acclaimed accessories designer Marina Raphael…

Fenwick’s Newcastle store has unveiled its 2024 Christmas windows, inspired by ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’.The display features the story of Foggy the partridge on a mission to meet Santa and help a pear tree.Creative Head Paul Baptiste describes this year’s theme as a blend of tradition with a modern twist.A custom soundtrack by Tyneside’s ‘The Unthanks’ enhances the experiential display.British illustrator Chris Riddell and Propability developed the windows, infusing them with imaginative craftsmanship.Fenwick’s Newcastle store has transformed its Christmas window display for 2024, drawing inspiration from the classic carol ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas.’ The display weaves a narrative…

This week marks the confluence of several pivotal events set to influence crypto market volatility. The U.S. elections stand at the forefront, promising to chart new directions in market trends. As economic indicators are released, insights into broader financial health will unfold.The crypto market is poised on the brink of significant changes. Investors are watchful as the blend of political, economic, and fiscal developments unravels. The outcomes this week are expected to ripple through various sectors, making it a crucial period for market stakeholders.The Impact of the U.S. Presidential ElectionThis Tuesday, November 5, 2024, the U.S. presidential election is set…

Sainsbury’s takes a bold step by extending the Aldi Price Match to its convenience stores, marking a first in the UK grocery sector.The initiative aims to deliver value and competitive pricing to customers as the festive season approaches.Sainsbury’s offers essential groceries at matched prices, ensuring affordability for everyday meals.The move replaces the previous Pocket Friendly Prices offer, simplifying pricing across stores.Sainsbury’s also examines its convenience range, enhancing product offerings and store layouts for better customer experience.Sainsbury’s has once again positioned itself at the forefront of retail innovation by being the first UK grocery chain to extend the Aldi Price Match…

Exploring the future of loyalty programs in 2025 presents key insights into what appeals to consumers today.H&M’s loyalty scheme leads the way by transforming casual shoppers into advocates through personalisation and sustainability.The RealReal integrates luxury and sustainability, offering its members exclusive access to pre-owned luxury items.Adidas’ adiClub encourages fitness alongside shopping, creating a comprehensive engagement model through experiential rewards.Sephora, Wendy’s, and Chick-fil-A also demonstrate innovative strategies, prioritising personalisation and community support.As businesses look ahead to 2025, understanding consumer behaviour is essential in shaping effective loyalty programs. H&M’s loyalty program exemplifies this approach by turning casual customers into dedicated brand advocates.…

Jessica Kate Harris, a newly qualified solicitor, has been struck off after being found guilty of dishonest conduct, including falsifying emails and misleading her new employer about her previous job departure.The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) uncovered that Ms Harris, who joined the national firm Weightmans after qualifying in 2021, had been tasked with drafting witness statements for a client. She reported to her supervisor that the drafts were completed and pending signatures. However, the tribunal found that this was untrue.In reality, Ms Harris had fabricated emails related to the completion of the documentation. Following this discovery, Weightmans terminated her employment.…

Mohsin Issa, Asda co-owner, unveils investment fund to support UK start-ups, inspired by his entrepreneurial journey.Boulder Investco, an offshore vehicle, is the foundation for these new investments, marking a significant shift in Issa’s business strategy.A major investment includes the backing of GoThrift, a Manchester-based second-hand clothing platform, competing against established rivals like Vinted.An additional £10 million injection supports Applied Nutrition, a Liverpool-based protein powder company that recently entered the stock market.This initiative highlights Issa’s commitment to UK businesses, driven by partner Victoria Price’s passion for entrepreneurship.Mohsin Issa, known for his role in Asda’s ownership, has announced the creation of a…

Mohsin Issa, co-owner of Asda, and his partner Victoria Price have launched a private investment fund focusing on UK start-ups.Boulder Investco is an offshore fund based in Jersey that forms the vehicle for their investments.A notable investment is in Manchester-based GoThrift, a competitor to Vinted.They have also invested £10 million in Liverpool’s Applied Nutrition, a protein powder firm.Price expresses her intent to work with entrepreneurial ventures in the UK.Mohsin Issa, known for his ownership of Asda, alongside partner Victoria Price, has initiated a new chapter in start-up investments with the formation of Boulder Investco. This offshore fund, based in Jersey,…

A surge in food delivery orders raises concerns about hygiene standards.Recent surveys indicate 86% of UK customers expect tamper-free packaging as a standard.Half of the respondents would not reorder following a poor delivery experience due to hygiene issues.Concerns about food tampering are particularly high among young adults aged 18 to 24.More than half of consumers have experienced problems with temperature and missing items in delivered food.The demand for food delivery services in Britain is experiencing a significant rise, with an annual growth rate predicted to be about 8.4% as reported by a commercial kitchen firm. This increasing demand underscores consumers’…

In a week marked by anticipation, the crypto market is intently awaiting the U.S. Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) crucial meeting. Investors are on edge.A prospective interest rate cut by the FOMC could have far-reaching implications for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. As traditional finance faces potential changes, many look to digital assets as alternatives.While some predict a positive turn for the crypto market, others remain cautious, recognising the complex interplay of economic factors. The coming days will be telling for investors globally.The Anticipated FOMC Meeting and Its Impact on CryptoThe crypto market finds itself in a state of anticipation as…