Aldi

CMA to reconsider Lidl and Aldi’s restrictive land clause exemption

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is reportedly considering an overhaul of rules that currently restrict major supermarkets from opening new stores in areas dominated by Aldi and Lidl, The Telegraph has reported.  The regulator’s current “restrictive” land clauses mean supermarkets must allow rival stores to open nearby without opposition…

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Today’s news in brief-1/4/25

Retailers are bracing for a £5.56bn rise in costs following the implementation of recent Budget measures, including higher National Insurance contributions and an increased minimum wage. According to Retail Economics, these changes will force businesses to absorb £1.76bn in profit losses while passing £1.72bn onto consumers through price hikes. Chancellor…

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Supermarket sales jump 1.8% amid increased promotions

Take-home supermarket sales increased by 1.8% over the four weeks to 23 March 2025 compared with one year ago – the slowest rate since June last year, according to the latest data from Kantar. It comes as retailers’ price cuts were responsible for £2.6bn of promotional spending, 8.8% more than…

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Today’s news in brief-25/3/25

WH Smith has successfully completed a refinancing deal, securing a £200m US Private Placement and a new £120m bank term loan. The move diversifies its debt financing ahead of a potential sale of its high street business, which includes over 500 stores. Two firms, Alteri Investors and Modello Capital, remain…

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Co-op launches Aldi price match pledge on over 100 products

Co-op has announced it is launching its biggest ever value campaign tomorrow (26 March), matching Aldi prices on over 100 everyday essentials including fresh fruit, milk, eggs and bread. The move, which Co-op said is the largest of its kind in convenience stores and a UK first for quick-comm platforms,…

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Today’s news in brief-17/3/25

Fenwick, the family-owned retailer, is facing significant financial challenges, with pre-tax losses widening to £38.1m in the year to January 2024, up from £28.4m the previous year. The company has been operating at a loss for six years due to high inflation, increased costs, and tough market conditions. Despite efforts…

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Sainsbury’s CEO confident amid intensifying competition

Sainsbury’s CEO, Simon Roberts, has acknowledged the rising competition in the supermarket sector following Asda’s decision to cut prices but remains confident in his company’s ability to stay ahead, according to The Times. His remarks follow a 7.8% drop in Sainsbury’s shares, wiping out £487m in value after Asda’s pricing…

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Today’s news in brief-14/3/25

Shein, the fast-fashion giant, has confirmed its plans to go public, targeting a listing on the London Stock Exchange. Executive chairman Donald Tang emphasised the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability as it transitions to a public entity. However, no specific timeline or valuation was disclosed, with Tang stating the…

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Aldi signs Armed Forces Covenant to support ex-military workers

Aldi has become a signatory of the Armed Forces covenant, highlighting its commitment to “uphold respect and fairness” for ex-military workers and their families.    The covenant emphasises Aldi’s support for former military personnel, with the UK’s fourth largest supermarket offering initiatives to help recognise and support them within the business. …

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M&S among winners as shoppers spend almost £1bn this Valentine’s Day

M&S was among the winners and losers this Valentine’s Day as shoppers spent almost £1bn to celebrate the day, according to NIQ. NIQ found that £962m was spent across Valentine’s Day on food and gifting with £100m (+6.6%) spent on Cut Flowers, £5.8m (+27%) spent on Toiletries Gift Packs and…

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