Accessibility
This coverage examines accessibility issues and initiatives within the UK retail sector, focusing on inclusive store design, digital access, workforce practices, and regulatory developments. Reporting highlights how retailers address the needs of disabled customers and employees, offering insights for managers, executives, and professionals committed to improving accessibility and compliance in retail environments.
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Jul- 2025 -15 JulyAdvice
Using AI to modernise CX in retail
The retail sector is at a crossroads. At a time when products and prices can often be easily matched, it is increasingly the customer experience that sets brands apart. Research has shown that companies that prioritise customer experience see revenues typically grow 4 – 8% above competitors1. Whether browsing in-store…
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Jun- 2025 -27 JuneFeatures
Has homeware become a fast fashion rite of passage?
This summer marks a bold new chapter in Primark’s retail journey, as the brand opens its first standalone Home store in Great Britain at Trafford Palazzo in Manchester. Following the success of its debut Home concept in Belfast, this 11,900 sq. ft, two-floor space aims to bring the full breadth…
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26 JuneClothing & Shoes
Hobbs opens new store at London Bridge station
Hobbs has opened a new store at London Bridge station, marking the fashion brand’s second travel retail site and its 11th shop in the capital. The 1,340 sq ft unit is the 70th Hobbs store across the UK and Republic of Ireland. It includes a free click-and-collect service aimed at…
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May- 2025 -8 MayFeatures
What do supermarkets stand to gain from hosting parcel lockers?
Parcel lockers are everywhere now – outside supermarkets, in petrol stations, by train lines – and the numbers back this up. According to recent data from Statista, in 2023, 40% of UK adults used them. The year before, it was 30%. A decade ago, it was barely half of that.…
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2 MayFeatures
How is Westfield’s new Health and Wellness Village reshaping retail spaces
Westfield London has announced the opening of its new Wellness Village, in a move to cater to the growing demand for accessible health and wellness experiences within a retail setting. The new space offers over 50,000 sq. ft. of health and wellness brands and services. According to the latest report…
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Apr- 2025 -30 AprilOnline & Digital
Ann Summers and Maplin launch virtual storefronts through Deliveroo
Deliveroo has announced the launch of a new virtual store concept for retailers, with Ann Summers and Maplin Electronics named as the first to use virtual storefronts through the app. Available to customers in London and Cambridge, their fully-branded virtual storefronts will operate within the Deliveroo app to offer customers…
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28 AprilFeatures
Will Mytheresa’s acquisition of YNAP create a leader in digital luxury?
Mytheresa’s acquisition of Yoox Net-A-Porter will bring together Mytheresa, Net-A-Porter, Mr Porter, Yoox, and The Outnet under the banner of LuxExperience – a new entity aiming to create “a global leader in digital luxury retail”. But as Chris Camacho, the chief executive of Cheil UK, points out: “Can you create…
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28 AprilComment
Four D2C trends to watch in 2025
Personalisation Personalisation has long been a buzzword in retail, but in 2025 it is becoming a baseline consumer expectation, with many now viewing tailored shopping experiences as a standard rather than a luxury. Personalisation in 2025 goes beyond just product recommendations; it’s about creating an entire experience that speaks to…
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Mar- 2025 -24 MarchFeatures
Are consumers stuck in an endless cycle of ‘aesthetic’ dupes?
The retail landscape is increasingly defined by a relentless cycle of “aesthetic” dupes – fast, trend-driven products designed to mimic high-end styles at a fraction of the cost. From Pinterest and Primark’s new trend-inspired collection to Temu’s staggering 77% product overlap with Amazon – where every tenth item is identical,…
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7 MarchFeatures
WHSmith’s high street exit: what it means for the retail industry
After more than 230 years as a staple of British high streets, WHSmith is considering selling off its entire high street business. With around 500 stores facing an uncertain future, the company is shifting its focus to travel retail — airports, railway stations, and motorway service areas — where it…
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