Author: Scott Dylan

UK retail sales experienced a decline in October, following three months of growth.The drop was influenced by budget uncertainties and warm weather.Sales decreased by 0.7% in October after a slight rise in September.Clothing stores were particularly affected, with a notable drop in sales.Experts express concern about consumer sentiment as the festive season approaches.In October, UK retail sales witnessed a decline, marking the end of three consecutive months of growth reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This downturn was attributed to budget uncertainties and the unusual warmth of the weather, which led consumers to spend less than anticipated. The…

Liverpool is making strategic moves to establish itself as a leader in responsible AI.The city is hosting a global AI summit, bringing together experts to explore AI’s potential.Liverpool University leads a major UK-wide AI project to enhance scientific research.The economic growth of Liverpool positions it to leverage AI for significant advancements.Local authorities emphasise AI development that aligns with community values and sustainability.Liverpool is gearing up to host a global AI summit, marking a significant step in embracing technological advancements. Renowned speakers, including Dr Nicola Hodson, the CEO of IBM UK and Ireland, are leading discussions at the event. Dr Hodson…

In a bold move to combat excess packaging, a prominent retailer is piloting an initiative to sell fruit and vegetables loose in its northern England stores.The pilot programme involves offering twelve varieties of produce without packaging, including staples like parsnips, carrots, broccoli, and onions, to more exotic options such as ginger and limes. This experiment will take place in select locations throughout County Durham, Cumbria, North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, Northumberland, and Tyne and Wear.The retailer estimates that if successful, the scheme could eliminate approximately 445 tonnes of packaging waste each year. This trial aims to align with targets set by…

Claire Parker has been appointed as the new Group Creative Partner at The Chase Creative Consultants.Parker brings nearly two decades of international design experience, including executive roles in New York and Amsterdam.Her career began at Saatchi & Saatchi in Singapore and Hong Kong as a Design Director.The appointment coincides with co-founder Ben Casey becoming co-chair at the agency.Parker will lead a team of 30, combining creative and commercial duties across Manchester and London.Claire Parker has been appointed as the new Group Creative Partner at The Chase Creative Consultants. With a career spanning almost two decades, she brings a wealth of…

DFS continues its robust performance into the current financial year, advancing previous growth.The retailer reports ongoing growth in order intake over the first 20 weeks despite previous losses.Cost reduction efforts are sustained as DFS aims to bolster financial performance.Marie Wall is appointed as the interim chief financial officer, starting 2 December.The appointment follows the planned departure of John Fallon as CFO.DFS has reported that its strong trading performance from the previous financial year has successfully carried over into the new financial period. The furniture retailer has shown consistent growth in order intake within the first 20 weeks of its current…

Consumer confidence has improved as Black Friday approaches, showing optimism despite ongoing economic challenges.GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index rose by three points to -18 in November compared to the previous month.Personal financial outlook for the next year has shown a modest improvement, highlighting cautious optimism among consumers.The general economic situation for the past year has seen a rise, although concerns remain for the coming year.Significant growth in major purchase intentions suggests increased consumer willingness to engage in spending.The latest data reveals a rising trend in consumer confidence as the much-anticipated Black Friday approaches. The GfK Consumer Confidence Index has seen an…

In November, consumer confidence across the UK saw a notable increase, reflecting easing budgetary concerns.Research indicates a three-point jump in household confidence, positioning it at -18 for November.All major sectors showed improvement, with enthusiasm for Black Friday and Christmas shopping leading the surge.Uncertainty from earlier budget announcements and the cessation of winter fuel payments contributed to previous lows.Experts cite wage increases and lower interest rates as factors in the rising consumer confidence.Consumer confidence across the United Kingdom improved significantly in November, aligning with a broader easing of budgetary concerns. Research from GfK reported a three-point rise in household confidence, taking…

The fashion industry is witnessing a significant surge in store openings as brands expand globally.AllSaints leads with openings across the UK, US, Europe, and Asia, signalling strong growth.JD Sports targets becoming a top global sports-fashion leader, planning hundreds of new stores annually.Primark innovates with small format stores, aiming for sustainable growth in Europe and the US.Mango, Sosandar, Lounge Underwear, Charles Tyrwhitt, Castore, and Mountain Warehouse aggressively pursue expansion.In recent months, numerous fashion retailers have embarked on ambitious store opening sprees, showcasing a trend towards global expansion. Among these is AllSaints, which has revealed plans to establish new outlets in key…

Evri has reported a significant increase in profits and parcel volumes, demonstrating strong growth.The company’s parcel volumes rose by 14.9% to over 730 million, driven by online shopping trends.Revenue increased by 15.2% to £1.7 billion, reflecting effective strategic investments.Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation jumped by a third to £292 million.Evri’s performance has positioned it as a major player in the UK’s delivery sector.Evri has shown a remarkable increase in profitability, with its profits doubling to £119 million following a record year for parcel deliveries. The company’s parcel volumes rose by 14.9% to over 730 million, a rise largely…

The Scottish tech industry is poised for significant growth, as recent discussions illustrate pressing issues and opportunities.A key challenge is bridging the funding gap during the scaleup phase, crucial for attracting further investment.Addressing the digital skills shortage requires creative solutions to make the best use of international talent.Expanding a global mindset among local tech companies is vital for achieving international success.Collaboration and breaking down silos within the industry can lead to innovative advancements and global recognition.The Scottish tech industry remains on track for notable growth, following a panel discussion hosted by UKTN and KPMG. This gathering brought together industry experts…