Author: Scott Dylan

Poundland is set to enhance customer value with a nationwide release of its rewards app, marking a significant £20m investment.The app, named Poundland Perks, allows users to collect points that can be transformed into digital vouchers for in-store or online use.Over 100 offers will be presented to users at any given time, broadening their shopping experience.This advancement comes after a successful trial in 100 stores across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Wight.The company’s digital innovation aims to provide additional value beyond its existing low prices, distinguishing it from competitors.Poundland is embarking on a nationwide launch of its rewards…

The IMF has called for the UK to increase taxes and limit spending to stabilise its public finances. This comes amid concerns over rising debt levels and fiscal sustainability.Chancellor Rachel Reeves is preparing significant tax hikes, addressing fiscal challenges while promoting economic growth.Labour inherited a substantial fiscal deficit, necessitating difficult decisions to balance budgets without austerity.The IMF emphasises the need for immediate fiscal corrections globally, highlighting growing spending pressures.Reeves faces a complex task of maintaining economic stability while ensuring public investment.The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a stern recommendation to the United Kingdom, urging the government to adopt measures…

An Instagram post by influencer Kayleigh Johnson, promoting a specific infant formula, has been banned for violating the United Kingdom’s stringent advertising guidelines.The post in question, which appeared on Kayleigh Johnson’s Instagram story, included an affiliate link to a product page for infant formula on a major supermarket’s website. Accompanying the post was a prompt asking, ‘Are you going to breastfeed? If not what formula will you use?’ along with a personal account of the influencer’s own breastfeeding journey.The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) strictly prohibits the marketing of infant formula under the Advertising Code, emphasising the need to protect…

Carlsberg Marston’s decision to close a historic brewery has sparked concern.Around 100 jobs are at risk as Banks’s brewery in Wolverhampton faces closure.The closure comes amid restructuring efforts following strategic business changes.Carlsberg Marston’s plans increased investment in other UK plants and logistics.The news reflects broader challenges faced by the beer industry in the UK.In a move that has stirred concern, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company has announced plans to close its historic Banks’s brewery in Wolverhampton. This decision will put approximately 100 jobs at risk and marks a significant moment in the year of the brewery’s 150th anniversary. The brewery, known…

The UK regulators have banned an online dating advert for promoting ‘sexist and negative gender stereotypes’.Complainants criticised the ad for depicting harmful stereotypes involving an older man and younger women.Seeking.com defended the advert, claiming it was intended as a humorous depiction of dating preferences.Despite claims of humour, the Regulatory Authority confirmed that the ad breached guidelines on gender representation.The banned advert is part of a broader initiative by the ASA to eliminate sexism in advertising since 2019.An advertisement from the online dating platform Seeking.com was prohibited by UK regulators on the grounds of promoting ‘sexist and negative gender stereotypes’. This…

CMR Surgical has achieved a critical milestone with FDA approval for its innovative Versius robotic system.This approval enables CMR Surgical to enter the US market, initially targeting gallbladder surgeries for adults aged 22 and above.The Cambridge-based company has already seen substantial success internationally, with over 26,000 procedures completed using the Versius system.Backed by prominent investors from SoftBank and Tencent, CMR Surgical has raised nearly $1 billion to date.CMR is also pursuing regulatory approval in other significant markets including Japan and China.CMR Surgical, based in Cambridge, has received FDA approval for its pioneering Versius robotic system, marking a significant step forward…

Peter Ruis, executive director of John Lewis, shared insights on the company’s transformation at the Drapers Inner Circle Summit 2024.John Lewis aims to significantly grow its fashion segment, potentially doubling its current operations.The transformation initiative is part of a strategic vision to revitalise the brand’s market presence.Ruis emphasised the pivotal role of innovation and customer experience in this next phase.The discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities within the broader retail landscape.Peter Ruis, in a compelling dialogue at the Drapers Inner Circle Summit 2024, elucidated John Lewis’s expansive vision for its fashion business. The company is poised to potentially double its…

The Wiltshire-based retailer, encompassing Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Need and Snow and Rock, continues to face financial challenges.For the fiscal year 2023, a pre-tax loss of £7.3m was reported, following a loss of £3.9m in 2022.This retail group last experienced a pre-tax profit in 2015, accumulating over £110m in losses since then.Macroeconomic factors, including inflation and geopolitical tensions, have played a significant role in these financial setbacks.The company remains optimistic about overcoming these challenges as inflation eases and consumer confidence is expected to rebound.The Wiltshire-based company, which owns well-known brands such as Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Need, and Snow and Rock, reported…

Greggs and Fenwick have joined forces once again, launching a new champagne bar.The previous collaboration, the Bistro Greggs, attracted over 8,000 visitors.This new venture pairs Greggs’ popular baked goods with high-end Champagnes.The champagne bar will operate on a reservation-only basis during the festive period.This initiative highlights innovative partnerships between two iconic North East brands.Greggs is making a noteworthy return to luxury retailer Fenwick to unveil a champagne bar, following the previous buzz generated by the Bistro Greggs. Last year’s collaboration between these two prominent North East firms introduced a unique dining experience in Newcastle that captivated the public’s attention.The Bistro…

Anne Morrison has been appointed as the new Chair of the Sheffield DocFest Board of Trustees, following a comprehensive recruitment process.Morrison’s extensive career in media, including roles at BBC and Nevision, brings a wealth of experience to the role.Her predecessor, Alex Cooke, is applauded for her successful leadership during the past five editions of the festival.Morrison is highly regarded for her commitment to diversity and talent development within the industry.As Chair, she will champion strategic partnerships and support festival leadership in organisational strategy.Anne Morrison has been appointed as the new Chair of the Sheffield DocFest Board of Trustees after a…