Author: Scott Dylan

Asda has announced a significant investment of £13 million in store operating hours over the festive period, aiming to bolster customer service following a dip in third-quarter sales.For the quarter ending 30 September, Asda reported a sales decline of 2.5%, bringing total sales, excluding fuel, down to £5.3 billion. Like-for-like sales experienced a steeper decrease of 4.8%, though this marks an improvement over the previous quarter. Asda’s strategic initiatives to enhance availability, improve the customer experience, and invest in value have begun to show positive results, as noted in the company’s second-quarter update.To further these improvements, Asda is dedicating an…

In a challenging climate for retailers, Asda confronts significant financial pressures due to recent changes in national tax legislation.Chancellor Rachel Reeves introduced her first Budget last month, which included a measure to increase the employers’ National Insurance contributions for earnings over £175 a week from 13.8% to 15%, beginning April 2025. This change is projected to cost Asda around £100m, a figure that Lord Stuart Rose, the company’s chairman, described as “not an easy swallow.”This adjustment comes as the retail sector grapples with broader financial challenges. Asda’s sales have already been on a downward trend. For the quarter ending September…

MMC Research has expanded its operations to London.The London office is led by Alice Broomhall, a key hire from 2021.With a focus on private equity, SaaS, and pharmaceuticals, MMC aims for growth.An additional £100k in revenue is targeted within the next year.The move strengthens MMC’s presence and client relationships in the South East.MMC Research, a market research and behavioural insights agency based in Sunderland, has taken a significant step by opening its inaugural office in London. This expansion marks a strategic move to enhance its market reach and capabilities outside the North East of England.Leading the London office is Alice…

Boohoo and Frasers Group are engaged in an ongoing dispute, now in its third week, marked by a series of open letters. The row centres around strategic decisions and accusations of self-interest, with each company defending its stance.The conflict began following John Lyttle’s resignation as Boohoo CEO and Frasers’ demand for Mike Ashley to replace him due to Boohoo’s poor trading performance.Boohoo appointed Dan Finley, formerly of Debenhams, instead of Mike Ashley, rejecting Frasers’ proposal, which has intensified tensions.Frasers Group has launched a campaign insisting on shareholder approval for any asset disposals and accused Boohoo’s board of disregarding shareholder interests.Both…

Allison Gardner, a notable figure in the Scottish film sector, is stepping down after a distinguished career.She began her journey with Glasgow Film in 1993 and became its CEO in 2020.Gardner played a vital role in elevating the Glasgow Film Festival to one of the UK’s top cultural events.Her leadership is celebrated by colleagues and industry professionals alike for fostering inclusivity and innovation.Gardner’s legacy includes significant growth and development at Glasgow Film, impacting diverse audiences.Allison Gardner, a prominent name in the film industry, has announced her retirement after dedicating over three decades to the Glasgow Film. She commenced her remarkable…

Liverpool FC has announced a significant change in its commercial leadership.Kate (Pratt) Theobald steps up to the role of Commercial Director.She replaces Ben Latty, who moved to Chief Commercial Officer last season.Theobald’s background includes work at Madison Square Garden Company and New York Yankees.Her role in LFC’s global partnership growth has been pivotal.Liverpool FC has introduced Kate (Pratt) Theobald as its new Commercial Director, marking a notable shift in its leadership team. Previously serving as the Head of Global Partnership Sales since 2019, Theobald has been instrumental in steering the club’s commercial strategies and expanding its global influence.She takes over…

The UK’s game development industry is thriving even amid global economic challenges.Northern studios are leading the growth, despite a downsizing trend in the sector.London remains the fastest-growing hub with significant job additions.Freelancing is on the rise as companies adjust employment strategies.Overseas ownership in UK studios reaches a significant proportion.In an era of economic challenges, the UK game development sector continues to expand, defying global trends. Despite a widespread downsizing in the industry, northern studios have emerged at the forefront of this growth. A recent report by TIGA highlights a notable increase in development activity across the UK over the past…

Alison Lacy has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer at Radical Forge, a Middlesbrough-based games studio.Lacy previously served as Location Manager at Avalanche Studios Group in Liverpool for four years.She has an extensive background with roles at Bentley Motors and Sony’s Evolution Studios.Lacy co-chairs the skills organisation GameChangers and holds a board position in Liverpool’s Digital & Creative sector.Her appointment follows a significant investment in Radical Forge and precedes the launch of their new game.Alison Lacy has been named Chief Operating Officer at Radical Forge, a game development studio based in Middlesbrough. She joins the company from Avalanche Studios…

schuh unveils its latest brand strategy ‘Same, but Different’ to strengthen its connection with young consumers.The campaign represents schuh’s commitment to self-expression and cultural diversity in the retail market.Marking a return to television advertising after a decade, schuh aims to stand out amidst industry sameness.The initiative is supported by creative strategy partner ZAK and media planner PHD Manchester.The campaign will span various platforms, targeting Gen Z with a culturally focused approach.schuh announces its innovative brand platform titled ‘Same, but Different’ in a bid to create a deeper connection with young audiences. This initiative showcases schuh’s determination to remain a key…

Hallmark Branding and Moorland Business Development have merged to establish Dialled In, a new marketing agency in Sheffield.The collaboration leverages the strong working relationship between Brendan Hall and Josh Dickens, both former SMH Group executives.Their merger aims to provide integrated sales and marketing services responding to client demands for comprehensive solutions.Dialled In introduces ‘Commercially Minded Marketing,’ aiming to stand out in the marketing industry.The merger is driven by a shared vision and client demand, promising innovative solutions and greater returns.Brendan Hall and Josh Dickens, both previously holding senior marketing roles at SMH Group, have once again joined forces to create…