News-In-Brief
News-In-Brief delivers quick, essential updates on the latest developments across the UK retail industry. This section provides short-form coverage of company announcements, leadership changes, trading updates, and key market movements. Retail Sector’s News-In-Brief is designed for retail professionals who need fast, reliable intelligence on business activity across all segments — from high street to ecommerce and luxury — offering concise summaries that keep decision-makers informed and up to date.
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Feb- 2025 -5 February
Today’s news in brief-5/2/25
A Welsh fashion designer has taken Boohoo, and its affiliated brands PrettyLittleThing, Nasty Gal Limited, Misspap, and Debenhams, accusing it of copying her signature designs. Sonia Edwards claims that her designs, including a halter-neck bikini top, a rib organza mesh puff-sleeve top, a velvet ruched midi-skirt, a twist-front skirt, and…
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4 February
Today’s news in brief-4/2/25
Shein’s planned £50bn London IPO is under threat due to potential US tariff reforms and ongoing allegations of forced labor in its supply chain. Former President Donald Trump’s proposal to eliminate the ‘de minimis’ tax rule—which allows duty-free imports of small packages under $800 from China, Canada, and Mexico—could significantly…
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Jan- 2025 -31 January
Today’s news in brief-31/1/25
Homebase, the DIY retailer that collapsed into administration in November 2024, owes more than £650m to unsecured creditors, including suppliers AO World, Halfords, and The Hut. Administrator Teneo reported total unsecured claims of £657m, with £100m owed to trade creditors. Major debts include £2.9m to Close Brothers for till systems,…
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30 January
Today’s news in brief-30/1/25
Retail crime in the UK has surged to record levels, with theft losses hitting £2.2bn in 2023/24, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC). The trade body warned that organised crime groups are “systematically” targeting stores, while violence and abuse against retail workers spiked by over 50%, averaging 2,000 incidents…
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29 January
Today’s news in brief-29/1/25
Lord Wolfson, CEO of Next and Conservative peer, has leveraged his House of Lords position to propose amendments phasing in upcoming National Insurance (NI) reforms. The budget measures, effective April, will raise employers’ NI contributions from 13.2% to 15% and lower the secondary threshold to £5,000 annually. Wolfson supports staggered…
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28 January
Today’s news in brief-28/1/25
HMV owner Doug Putman is reportedly exploring a bid for WH Smith’s high street arm after the retailer announced plans to sell its 500-store chain. Modella Capital, owner of Hobbycraft, is also in talks regarding a potential acquisition, although the outcome remains unclear. WH Smith’s move comes as its high…
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27 January
Today’s news in brief-27/1/25
WH Smith is exploring the sale of its high street arm to focus on its global Travel business, which now contributes 75% of revenue and 85% of profits. The potential sale, managed by bankers at Greenhill, comes amid a 9% decline in high street profits to £39m, although group revenue…
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24 January
Today’s news in brief-24/1/25
Morrisons has announced plans to cut over 200 jobs as part of a restructuring effort aimed at reducing costs and enhancing operational efficiency. The proposed changes include the removal of regional people managers, store people managers, and case specialists. The company intends to replace these roles with a centralised structure,…
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23 January
Today’s news in brief-23/1/25
Primark has revised its sales forecast for 2025 downwards following a challenging autumn trading period in the UK and Ireland. The company reported a 6% decline in like-for-like sales in these regions, largely attributed to cautious consumer sentiment and mild weather affecting seasonal clothing purchases. Despite a modest recovery during…
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22 January
Today’s news in brief-22/1/25
River Island has engaged AlixPartners to manage cost reductions ahead of impending tax hikes in April. Despite a £33.2m pre-tax loss and a 19% drop in turnover to £578.1m for 2023, the retailer plans no formal restructuring affecting its 250+ stores. Waterstones reported a substantial rise in pre-tax profits to…
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