Author: Scott Dylan

Selkirk Group is preparing to enter the London AIM market with backing from Kelso Group, aiming to unlock value in the UK stock market.Kelso Group, a key investor in THG, supports Selkirk Group’s upcoming IPO on the AIM market.Iain McDonald, a significant player in THG and Boohoo, is a central figure in the Selkirk initiative.Selkirk Group targets undervalued UK companies, focusing on the consumer, technology, and digital media sectors.Kelso’s acquisition of additional THG shares signals confidence in the UK stock market’s potential.The Selkirk Group is poised to make its debut on London’s AIM market, a move supported heavily by Kelso…

Iceland Foods has resumed its lengthy legal struggle with the Icelandic government over its trademark rights in the European Union.On 16 October, Richard Walker OBE, executive chairman of Iceland Foods, presented the company’s arguments at the General Court of the European Union in Luxembourg. This session represents the most recent stage in a protracted legal fight over the frozen food retailer’s right to use the name ‘Iceland’ as a trademark within the EU.The controversy first arose in 2016 when Iceland’s government contested the trademark, which had been granted to Iceland Foods in 2014. The disagreement stemmed from the retailer’s actions…

In September, retail sales in the UK experienced a notable increase, challenging concerns over an economic slowdown.The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a surprising 0.3% rise in retail sales volumes for September.Economists had predicted a 0.4% decline, highlighting the unexpected strength in consumer spending.A substantial 5.5% growth occurred in ‘other non-food’ sectors, led by technology stores.Despite poor supermarket performance, overall quarterly retail growth is the highest since July 2021.Retail sales in the UK rose by 0.3% in September, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), defying economists’ expectations of a decline. This upturn is indicative of resilient consumer…

Mothercare continues to face a downturn in sales attributed to challenges in the Middle East.Despite this, they have formed a significant partnership with Indian conglomerate Reliance.Global retail sales saw a notable drop of 13 per cent year-over-year.Nevertheless, the company reported improved profitability and reduced debt.Mothercare is optimistic about the positive impact of recent strategic moves.Mothercare, a prominent brand in baby products, is experiencing a continued decline in sales as it navigates the aftermath of the pandemic. The company identifies ongoing difficulties in Middle Eastern markets as a primary reason for this slump.In a move towards recovery, Mothercare has established a…

Aviva Studios in Manchester marks its first anniversary with over 700,000 visitors showcasing its transformative impact on the region.Recognised globally, the venue has been listed by TIME magazine as a top destination.Danny Boyle’s ‘Free Your Mind’ was the pioneering production that opened the venue to the public.Significant economic and cultural contributions have been made, offering jobs and training to locals.Aviva Studios aims to nurture future talent through its Factory Academy with successful alumni already securing roles.Aviva Studios has celebrated its first year as a multi-million-pound cultural addition to Manchester, drawing over 700,000 visitors. The remarkable venue has been singled out…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering withdrawing tax breaks associated with electric vehicle (EV) salary sacrifice schemes, a move which has provoked unease among automotive industry leaders.The current arrangement allows employees to lease EVs on advantageous terms, thus supporting EV sales during a period of suppressed new car demand.Critics argue that the schemes predominantly benefit wealthier individuals, urging the government to reassess these fiscal advantages.The government estimates that removing these schemes could potentially save up to £100 million.Industry experts warn such changes could significantly impede the UK’s EV adoption goals.Chancellor Rachel Reeves is contemplating the termination of tax advantages linked to…

In a decisive move, Nestlé’s chief executive Laurent Freixe has initiated a thorough restructuring of the company’s operations and executive leadership to create a more “leaner” organisation. This strategic overhaul comes as the multinational giant adjusts its growth projections following weaker-than-anticipated sales results.Nestlé, a prominent player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, experienced a modest 2% increase in underlying sales over the first nine months of the year. Consequently, the company lowered its full-year growth expectations to 2%, revising its prior forecast of at least 3%—a reduction from an earlier estimate of 4%. This adjustment follows a series of…

Robert Jenrick aims to bridge divisions within the Conservative Party with his leadership bid.His economic strategy is rooted in his business background and small family business upbringing.Jenrick’s plan includes cutting 2p from income tax through reduced government expenditure.He proposes reforms in welfare to workforce transition, energy investment, and infrastructure development.Jenrick emphasises the importance of ending factionalism for party cohesiveness.In a bid to lead the Conservative Party, Robert Jenrick has highlighted his commitment to uniting a divided party. Speaking on GB News, he expressed his vision of bringing together the party’s various traditions and ending the political infighting that has plagued…

In September, UK retail sales exceeded expectations, energised by a substantial demand for technology, even as overall growth decelerated.The latest data from the Office for National Statistics showed retail sales volumes increased by 0.3% in September.Sales in technology and telecommunication sectors surged by over a third, counterbalancing a 2.4% decrease in supermarket sales.Year-on-year, retail sales saw a significant rise of 3.9%, the largest since February 2022.Cooler weather supported a 2.5% increase in non-food sales as consumers updated their seasonal wardrobes.In a surprising turn of events, UK retail sales rose by 0.3% in September, defying earlier forecasts of a decline. This…

Levi Solicitors successfully secured a new licence for Blayds Bar in Leeds’ challenging ‘Red Zone’.The ‘Red Zone’ is an area where new licences are typically denied due to safety and order concerns.A lapse in the previous licence, caused by administrative changes, placed Blayds Bar at risk of closure.Community support played a vital role with a petition gaining almost 3,000 signatures.Leeds City Council granted the licence, recognising the bar’s positive community impact.Levi Solicitors has achieved a significant legal victory by securing a new premises licence for Blayds Bar, a well-known LGBTQ+ establishment located in Leeds’ ‘Red Zone’. This area is renowned…