Covid-19

Consumer confidence hasn’t recovered since Brexit vote, Barclays finds

Consumer confidence reached its highest point in the past 10 years in September 2016, at 48%, just after the Brexit referendum, according to Barclays’ “10 Years of Spend” report. Barclays has been tracking consumer confidence monthly since 2015 and also surveyed 2000 people in the UK for the report, which…

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Mothercare retail sales fall 18% in FY25

Mothercare, the specialist global brand for parents and young children, has reported an 18% decline in its worldwide retail sales by franchise partners of £231m (FY24: £281m) for the 52 week period to 29 March 2025 (FY25).  According to the group, the decline largely resulted from the unchanged trading conditions…

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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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New Original Factory Shop owner eyes major rent cuts as part of CVA 

The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) landlords could face a package of major rent cuts as its new owner aims to finalise plans for a CVA for the group, with potential store closure also featuring as part of the move. According to Sky News, Modella Capital is now preparing to unveil a…

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Clintons returns to FY profit following store closures

Clintons has returned to profit following a period of store closures and job losses, with pre-tax profits rising to £8.1m in the year ended 29 June 2024, up from a loss of £5.4m the prior year. Full-year sales fell from £96.5m to £82.6m over the period, which was a “satisfactory…

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Carphone Warehouse founder to invest £5m in Jigsaw

Carphone Warehouse co-founder, David Ross, is reportedly investing about £5m in Jigsaw, which will result in him becoming the fashion retailer’s majority shareholder, according to Sky News.  The multi-million pound investment comes seven years after Ross’ first cash injection, and it is understood that this financing will see him replace…

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Topshop’s comeback: a boon for the high street?

Topshop is back. Once a beacon of British high street fashion, the brand has teased its return to reclaim its position in the retail landscape. But in an era dominated by digital-first brands, resale platforms, and evolving consumer habits, does Topshop have what it takes to thrive again? The journey…

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New TOFS owner eyes potential CVA and store closures

Modella Capital, the owner of The Original Factory Shop (TOFS), is reportedly working with Interpath Advisory on a potential company voluntary arrangement, according to Sky News.  Having acquired the retailer four weeks ago with no remaining bank debt, Modella is seeking to restructure the business and is currently “exploring options”. …

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Supermarket sales rise 3.6% in February

Take-home sales at the grocers rose by 3.6% over the four weeks to 23 February compared with one year ago, according to the latest data from Kantar. It also found that retailer promotions helped to hold grocery price inflation steady at 3.3% in February 2025, as spending on deals rose…

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The decline of UK department stores: can they survive?

The decline of department stores in the UK has been one of the most significant shifts in the retail sector in recent years. High street giants that once defined the shopping experience have faced unprecedented challenges, leaving behind empty storefronts and a stark reminder of how much the landscape has…

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