Comment
Comment features expert perspectives and thought leadership from across the UK retail industry. This section includes opinion pieces, analysis, and commentary from senior retail executives, analysts, and sector specialists on the commercial, strategic, and operational forces shaping retail. Retail Sector’s Comment coverage explores issues such as consumer behaviour shifts, technology adoption, sustainability, regulation, and leadership — providing retail professionals with authoritative insight to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
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Feb- 2024 -20 February
New season, new start – what’s next for the retail sector
As retailers look to unveil the new products of the season, there is an opportunity to start afresh – and consider how best to evolve operations to meet the demands of an ever-evolving breed of customers. While this is no small undertaking, it does provide a real opportunity to enhance…
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9 February
Five lessons from the demise of The Body Shop
In the face of recent news that The Body Shop’s UK operations are preparing to enter administration, a reflection on the missteps leading to this situation offers valuable lessons for the broader retail industry. The iconic brand, founded on ethical principles and sustainability, now finds itself at a crossroads, underscoring…
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Jan- 2024 -24 January
A retailer’s guide to navigating economic downturns
1. Analyse and adjust inventory Start by analysing your inventory. Identify slow-moving or non-essential products and consider reducing their quantities. Focus on essential items that customers are likely to continue purchasing even during tough times. Be cautious about overstocking to avoid tying up capital in excess inventory. 2. Enhance cost…
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23 January
Sustainable packaging and e-commerce: what more can be done?
The Thanksgiving weekend of 2023, including Cyber Monday, saw $38 billion in online sales in the US, while e-commerce in the UK is forecast to exceed 38% of all retail sales by 2025. That’s an awful lot of packages being delivered to homes. Brands that sell a lot (or all)…
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23 January
A guide to integrating blockchain technology in retail
1. Supply Chain Transparency and Traceability Blockchain’s ability to create an immutable ledger of transactions makes it ideal for tracking the movement of products through the supply chain. Retailers can use blockchain to record every step of a product’s journey, from manufacturing to delivery. This transparency helps verify the authenticity…
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21 January
A practical guide to visual merchandising for retailers
Understand your target audience Before diving into visual merchandising, take the time to understand your target audience. Who are your customers? What are their preferences, lifestyles, and shopping behaviours? The better you know your audience, the more effectively you can tailor your displays to appeal to their interests and needs.…
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19 January
How the Red Sea crisis could impact UK retail
Earlier this month, Next experienced supply chain delays on the Red Sea, citing “difficulties with access to the Suez Canal”. The retailer, along with other big-brand names on the high street like Poundland, fear that it may be one of the main risk factors for the year ahead, alongside the…
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19 January
The ultimate guide to retail digital transformation
The retail sector faces a host of challenges in the digital age, including: Changing consumer expectations: Consumers now expect seamless, personalised, and omnichannel shopping experiences. Competition: E-commerce giants and digitally-native brands have disrupted traditional retail. Data overload: Retailers must harness vast amounts of data for insights and decision-making. Operational efficiency:…
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18 January
The retailer’s guide to live streaming and selling
Live streaming involves broadcasting real-time video content to an online audience. What sets it apart from pre-recorded videos is the immediate interaction it allows. Retailers are now using live streaming not just for brand awareness but also for direct sales. It’s like having a virtual storefront where you can showcase…
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17 January
Diversifying revenue streams: A strategic imperative for retailers
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of businesses that depended solely on physical retail. Diversification provides a safety net during crises and economic downturns. Consumer behaviours and preferences have also evolved rapidly and diversification allows retailers to adapt to changing market trends and seize emerging opportunities. Additionally, many retailers also…
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