Author: Scott Dylan

Mulberry has reported increased financial losses in the first half of the year, prompting strategic changes by its new CEO.Losses for the luxury brand reached £15.7m, an increase from £12.8m last year, alongside a 19% drop in sales.CEO Andrea Baldo has been in position for under three months and emphasises a shift in brand focus.The company is streamlining operations and adjusting product and pricing strategies to improve margins.A previous takeover bid by Frasers Group was declined, sparking concerns about governance and future plans.Mulberry has announced a significant rise in its half-year losses, which have reached £15.7 million for the 26…

Switalskis has launched a new service to address growing inheritance disputes in Yorkshire.Led by the experienced solicitor Sandra Kowalska, the service aims to offer expert support in legal issues surrounding wills and trusts.Recent Ministry of Justice statistics highlight a significant rise in inheritance disputes driven by complex family dynamics, wealth transfer, and pandemic impacts.Sandra Kowalska brings over six years of experience and a compassionate approach to her new role.The new service aims to fill a critical gap in Yorkshire’s legal market for dedicated inheritance disputes expertise.Switalskis Solicitors has introduced a dedicated service to manage the increasing demand for legal assistance…

Mulberry continues to face financial challenges, reporting an operating loss of £13.1 million for the first half of 2024, marking a 25% decrease compared to the previous year.The luxury brand’s pre-tax loss reached £15.7 million, a 23% drop from last year’s £12.8 million, while overall revenue declined by 16% to £56.1 million due to ongoing economic uncertainties.UK retail sales saw a decrease of 14% to £31.3 million, and sales in the Asia-Pacific region fell by 31% to £9.3 million, with franchise and wholesale revenues also shrinking by 46% to £5.4 million.Digital sales have remained strong, comprising 33% of Mulberry’s total…

Sir Jon Thompson is poised to become chairman of the Frasers Group in 2025, following his recent appointment as a non-executive director.Thompson will succeed David Daly, although the appointment is not yet confirmed.Thompson has a history of leadership in significant roles, including his tenure as chair of HS2 and CEO of the Financial Reporting Council.He has established a positive working relationship with Frasers’ leadership, including CEO Michael Murray.Thompson’s experience spans several senior finance roles in the UK government, showcasing an extensive background in public service.Sir Jon Thompson, recently appointed as a non-executive director of Frasers Group, is anticipated to step…

In a bid to redefine frozen food retail, Iceland has reintroduced its brand accelerator initiative, ‘Brands on Ice’, showcasing a new wave of innovative products.The second session of Iceland’s ‘Brands on Ice’ has highlighted the company’s focus on advancing branded innovation within the frozen food sector. This initiative aims to identify and nurture groundbreaking products that push the boundaries of traditional frozen foods. Among the feature products, Mantinga introduced its unique ‘Donut Ring of Sour’, claimed to be the world’s first donut incorporating sour acid powder. This showcases a creative twist on a classic treat, reflecting the event’s spirit of…

The BAFTA-winning Scottish comedy ‘Dinosaur’ is set to make a comeback on BBC, delighting fans and critics alike.Co-created by Ashley Storrie and Matilda Curtis, ‘Dinosaur’ follows the life of Nina, an autistic woman navigating personal challenges.The series is known for its heartfelt portrayal of sisterhood and friendship, with Ashley Storrie leading a talented cast.Filming for the new series will commence in Glasgow in 2025, promising the return of its charming narrative.Executive producers and the BBC express excitement about the show’s continuation and its recognition at the BAFTA Scotland Awards.The Scottish comedy ‘Dinosaur’, which has won acclaim at the BAFTA Scotland…

As Christmas 2024 approaches, major supermarkets in the UK have already unveiled the culinary delights they anticipate will be at the heart of festive celebrations.Cheese enthusiasts will find plenty to savour this Christmas. According to reports, 61% of UK adults prefer crafting their own cheeseboards. This trend has been duly noted by Tesco, which identifies cheddar, brie, red Leicester, flavoured wensleydale, and camembert as the top choices. Aldi has introduced a 1kg Luxury Cheese Truckle Tower featuring popular varieties like Extra Mature Coastal Cheddar. Asda has also catered to creative customers with its ‘Fantastic Grazing Board’ and ‘Charcuter-wreath’ DIY kits.Festive…

A new partnership aims to enhance diversity in the tech industry.Nexer Digital teams up with Digital Advantage for inclusivity.The initiative focuses on young people with special needs.Hands-on experience will be central to the programme.The collaboration fosters equitable recruitment practices.In a significant step towards inclusivity in technology, Nexer Digital has partnered with the Manchester-based training charity, Digital Advantage. This collaboration is designed to provide substantial work placements and opportunities specifically aimed at young individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).Ryan Hill, a 20-year-old participant, has begun working with Nexer Digital, marking the initiative’s first successful placement. Working two days a…

A significant £4 million seed financing effort is underway, led by Northern Gritstone, benefiting Manchester-based Siveray.The funding is set to help Silveray introduce its innovative digital X-ray technology by 2025 as it accelerates product development.Joining the investment are firms like Empirical Ventures and Deeptech Labs, alongside ACF Investors and Hamamatsu Ventures.Silveray, originally from the University of Surrey, moved to Manchester for better resources and collaboration.According to CEO Dan Cathie, the aim is to digitise radiographic film, promising revenue generation by 2025.Northern Gritstone spearheads a £4 million seed investment round targeting Siveray, a Manchester-based company specialising in digital X-ray technology. This…

Samworth Brothers has announced the potential sale of its renowned malt loaf brand, Soreen, as part of its strategy to concentrate on core product lines.The food and drink manufacturing giant, Samworth Brothers, is reportedly working with financial adviser Spayne Lindsay to facilitate the sale of the Soreen brand. Sources suggest that the brand could fetch up to £75 million in the current market. This move aligns with Samworth Brothers’ strategic intent to streamline its product range and focus on its core offerings.Interest in Soreen is reportedly high, with prominent rival food manufacturers such as Premier Foods, Valeo Foods, and the…