Economic Growth
This coverage reviews UK economic growth trends and their impact on the retail sector, focusing on consumer spending, GDP indicators, inflation, and regional performance. Reporting examines how macroeconomic shifts shape retail investment, pricing strategies, and store expansion decisions—offering insights for retail executives, CFOs, and business leaders navigating market cycles and strategic planning.
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Jun- 2025 -5 JuneEconomy
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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May- 2025 -28 MayProperty
John Lewis wins approval for West Ealing housing plans
The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has been successful in its planning appeal to redevelop Waitrose West Ealing and build hundreds of new homes. A government planning inspector confirmed the plans had been given the go ahead after JLP submitted an appeal in summer 2024 on the grounds of a “non-determination”. …
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Mar- 2025 -31 MarchFeatures
Spring Budget 2025: what it means for the retail industry
The UK retail sector has been navigating a volatile economic landscape, with rising operational costs, shifts in consumer spending, and policy changes placing unprecedented pressure on businesses. The Spring Budget 2025, delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, was highly anticipated by industry leaders, who had hoped for measures that would alleviate…
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26 MarchEconomy
Chancellor resists calls for business relief in Spring Statement
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has resisted calls from businesses for relief ahead of the upcoming tax changes this April, as part of her Spring Statement today (26 March). UK businesses had been hopeful the chancellor would raise the relief rate for retail, hospitality, and leisure after cutting it to 40% in…
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19 MarchClothing & Shoes
Office sees profits top £100m amid improved trading and new stores
Footwear retailer Office has seen its full-year pre-tax profits more than double to £102.4m as it experienced better trading conditions and expanded its store estate. According to its latest accounts filed with Companies House, its revenues for the 52-weeks ended 30 June 2024 increased to £294.3m, up from £265.4m the…
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Feb- 2025 -26 FebruaryHigh Street
M&S and John Lewis top list for highest female board representation
M&S and John Lewis are among several retailers who are leading the way for gender equality in boardrooms. According to the FTSE Women Leaders Review report for 2025, women now occupy nearly 43% – or a total of 1,275 – of roles on company boards in the UK. A number…
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26 FebruaryProperty
Hammerson rental income falls as it slashes net debt
Hammerson has seen its gross rental income fall from £208m to £189m for the year ended 31 December 2024. As a result, the company posted a loss of £526m, up from a £51m loss in the previous year, with the company putting £497m of this loss down to impairment in…
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19 FebruaryProperty
Landsec given permission to revamp former Debenhams into city square
Landsec has secured planning permission from Cardiff City Council to transform a former Debenhams unit into a 102,000 sq ft city square. The redevelopment, designed in collaboration with over 5,000 local residents, will respond to consumer demand for high-quality leisure experiences, green spaces, and family-friendly environments. Bruce Findlay, managing director…
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6 FebruaryNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-6/2/25
Tesco is reportedly considering a takeover of over 100 Crown Post Office branches, potentially safeguarding them from closure as the state-owned Post Office reviews its directly managed network. Post Office chairman Nigel Railton informed MPs that Tesco expressed interest in acquiring the loss-making branches, part of a broader strategic review…
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Jan- 2025 -23 JanuaryNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-23/1/25
Primark has revised its sales forecast for 2025 downwards following a challenging autumn trading period in the UK and Ireland. The company reported a 6% decline in like-for-like sales in these regions, largely attributed to cautious consumer sentiment and mild weather affecting seasonal clothing purchases. Despite a modest recovery during…
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