Bank of England
This coverage analyses the Bank of England’s decisions and policies and their impact on the UK retail sector, focusing on interest rates, inflation, consumer spending, and economic forecasts. Reporting provides context on how monetary policy shapes retail performance, costs, and demand — offering insight for executives, managers, and professionals making strategic decisions in a shifting economic environment.
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Aug- 2024 -23 AugustFeatures
Breaking barriers: How independent retailers can overcome financial hurdles
Starting a shop is more than just a commercial endeavour. It’s a chance for creative individuals to realise their vision and add unique value to local communities. From handmade crafts and bespoke homeware to curated fashion, the opportunities for independent retailers are vast. It’s no surprise that more than a…
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1 AugustEconomy
BoE cuts interest rates for first time in 4 years
The Bank of England (BoE) has cut interest rates for the first time in four years, with the rate falling to 5%. The bank voted by a majority of 5–4 to reduce the rate by 0.25 percentage points to 5%, marking the first fall in inflation since March 2020, where…
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Jul- 2024 -11 JulyNews
Today’s news in brief-11/7/24
The UK economy surpassed expectations with a 0.4% GDP growth in May 2024, boosted by improved weather conditions. The services sector led growth, expanding by 0.3%, while construction grew by 1.9%. Analysts see this growth influencing the Bank of England’s upcoming interest rate decision. British entrepreneur Mike Jatania is nearing…
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11 JulyEconomy
UK economy beats expectations as GDP jumps 0.4%
UK gross domestic product (GDP) beat expectations in May, increasing 0.4%, as a result of better weather, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). An unseasonably wet April dented consumer sentiment and hurt construction leading to the slight increase. Construction grew at the fastest rate in almost…
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Jun- 2024 -25 JuneNews
Disposable income for low-earning households hits 3-year high, Asda finds
Disposable income for low-earning households hit a near three-year high in May, following a 12.6% increase year-on-year, Asda’s income tracker has revealed. Despite this increase, budgets for these families remain under pressure in real terms, as their take home pay was still not enough to cover bills and essential spending,…
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21 JuneNews
Today’s news in brief-21/6/24
UK retail sales saw a notable increase of 2.9% in May 2024, reversing a 1.8% decline in April. According to the Office for National Statistics, sales volumes rose across various sectors, with clothing retailers and furniture stores rebounding after poor weather in April. Over the three months to May 2024,…
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21 JuneEconomy
BoE decision a ‘blow for Gen Z spending’, says RSM UK
The economic impact of high interest rates is set to hit Gen Z spending for the next 12 months, “prolonging the challenge for retailers and hospitality businesses as discretionary spend gets squeezed”, according to accountancy firm RSM. A survey of 2,000 consumers conducted on behalf of RSM UK shows Gen…
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20 JuneEconomy
BoE holds interest rates for 7th consecutive month
Interest rates have remained unchanged at 5.25% for the seventh consecutive month, the Bank of England has announced. The bank’s MPC voted by a majority of 7–2 to maintain the rate, despite inflation hitting its target and falling to 2% in May. UK inflation hit its target for the first time…
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19 JuneNews
Today’s news in brief-19/6/24
UK inflation has hit its target for the first time in almost three years, with consumer price inflation easing to 2% in May, down from 2.3% in April. The Bank of England last reached this target in July 2021. The Office for National Statistics attributes the decline primarily to falling…
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19 JuneEconomy
Inflation hits 2% target for first time in three years
UK inflation has hit its target for the first time in almost three years, as consumer price inflation eased to 2% in the year to May, down from a rise of 2.3% the prior month. The Bank of England last hit the 2% target in July 2021. According to the Office…
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