Automation
This coverage examines the role of automation in the UK retail sector, focusing on technology adoption, workforce impact, operational efficiency, and supply chain innovation. Reporting highlights how retailers implement automation to improve productivity, reduce costs, and respond to consumer expectations — offering insight for executives, managers, and professionals driving transformation in retail operations.
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Jun- 2024 -12 JuneEconomy
Economy stalls in April due to wet weather
The UK economy stalled in April showing no growth as wet weather dampened consumer spending, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics. Monthly real gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to have shown no growth in April 2024, following growth of 0.4% in March 2024. It…
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May- 2024 -17 MayAdvice
Here’s what you’re missing if you forgo a loyalty programme
Businesses have been known to implement loyalty programmes – or customer rewards, as some might call them – since at least the mid-80s. While it’s mostly associated with retail, it can be used by anyone who exchanges goods or services, from coffee shops to hairdressers. Some detractors might like to…
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15 MayClothing & Shoes
Boux Avenue upbeat on performance despite widening losses
Retail boss Theo Paphitis is upbeat on the performance of his lingerie brand Boux Avenue despite the company seeing its pre-tax losses widen from £1.5m to £8.7m, according to its delayed accounts filed with Companies House for the full-year ended 1 April 2023. The brand said external challenges such as…
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8 MayClothing & Shoes
Boohoo losses hit £160m amid sales slump
Boohoo losses have widened to £159.9m in its full-year results, up from a previous loss of £90.7m, as revenues fell amid a challenging market backdrop over the period.In the year ended 29 February 2024, revenues fell by 17% to £1.46bn, down from £1.77bn the prior year. As well as difficult…
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Apr- 2024 -12 AprilNews
Today’s news in brief-12/4/24
Levi’s has welcomed Gianluca Flore, a seasoned executive from Burberry, as its new chief commercial officer effective 29 July . With over 20 years of experience in luxury apparel, Flore will oversee global commercial operations, reporting directly to Levi’s CEO Michelle Gass. His track record in brand expansion and profitability…
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12 AprilOnline & Digital
Amazon invests over £600m in robotics and AI in Europe
Amazon has invested more than €700m (£600m) in robotics and AI-powered technologies across Europe over the last five years.By the end of 2024, the company’s European Operations Innovations Lab in Vercelli, Northern Italy, will have been responsible for the installation of over 1,000 pieces of new technology throughout Amazon’s European…
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10 AprilHealth & Beauty
THG losses narrow as boss hails improved Q4 revenues
LookFantastic and MyProtein owner, THG, has reported that its losses before tax have narrowed to £252m during the year ending 31 December 2023 from £549.7m in the year prior. The news comes despite total group revenues falling 8.4% after the group’s decision to “discontinue loss-making categories”. In addition, the group’s…
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4 AprilFeatures
What disadvantages does ‘shrinkflation’ bring for retailers?
In the world of consumer goods, the term ‘shrinkflation’ is rapidly becoming popular, and while it has been traditionally associated with consumers, the phenomenon is also starting to apply to retailers, prompting them to reconsider their strategies and prepare for the emerging challenges in the market ahead. Gaining popularity around…
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Feb- 2024 -20 FebruaryAdvice
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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13 FebruarySupply Chain
Yodel rescued by rival firm Shift
Yodel has announced that it has been acquired by YDLGP Limited, a newly formed company backed by rival firm Shift, for an undisclosed amount. YDLGP is also backed by a consortium of investors including Solano Partners Ltd, an independent boutique investment bank who also advised on the acquisition Yodel also…
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