Hobbycraft
This coverage examines Hobbycraft’s evolving strategy within the UK retail sector. Reporting includes its expansion plans, such as the opening of seven new stores in 2025, and the introduction of dedicated digital crafting spaces and haberdashery areas in new locations. The content also addresses the company’s financial performance, noting an 80% drop in profits for the year ending February 2024 despite revenue growth. Additionally, the analysis covers the impact of Modella Capital’s acquisition in August 2024 and subsequent restructuring efforts, including the planned closure of nine stores in 2025. This information is curated for retail professionals assessing market opportunities, operational challenges, and strategic shifts in the arts and crafts retail sector.
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Oct- 2025 -17 OctoberEntertainment
The Entertainer partners with Modella for toy supply pilot
The Entertainer has agreed a partnership with retail investment firm Modella Capital to launch curated toy ranges in selected TGJones and Hobbycraft stores across the UK. The pilot scheme will see the Amersham-based toy retailer manage product selection and merchandising in six TGJones and six Hobbycraft locations from the end…
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Sep- 2025 -18 SeptemberHigh Street
Modella Capital leads race to acquire Claire’s UK arm
Modella Capital is leading the race to acquire the UK arm of Clire’s, after reportedly agreeing the outline of a deal with Ames Watson, the new US-based owner of Claire’s, Sky News has reported. The London-based investor, which bought WH Smith’s high street business earlier this year, is said to…
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8 SeptemberHigh Street
Modella and Doug Putman vie for collapsed Claire’s UK stores
Modella Capital along with Doug Putman, the businessman who rescued HMV, are both reportedly bidding to take over Claire’s UK operations after the fashion accessories chain fell into administration, according to Sky News. Modella Capital, which this year agreed to buy WH Smith’s 480 UK high street stores and plans…
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Aug- 2025 -20 AugustDIY
Hobbycraft creates new sales channel with Hobbycraft TV launch
Hobbycraft is set to launch Hobbycraft TV, a dedicated video channel offering daily demonstrations and tutorials to support makers of all skill levels. The service will go live on Freeview Channel 97 from 7.30am on 4 September, and will also be available online at hobbycraft.co.uk/TV and on the brand’s YouTube…
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May- 2025 -7 MayPeople Moves
TOFS appoints former commercial director Tim Bettley as MD
The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) has appointed experienced retail leader and its former commercial director Tim Bettley as its new managing director. Bettley was most recently commercial director at Poundland and Dealz, and before that operated in the same role at TOFS from 2015 and 2018, during which time the…
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6 MayNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-6/5/25
Deliveroo has agreed to a £2.9bn takeover by US rival DoorDash, creating a combined entity operating in over 40 countries with annual orders exceeding £10bn. The deal, offering a 44% premium on Deliveroo’s share price, was approved by its board. DoorDash CEO Tony Xu highlighted the potential for expanded innovation,…
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6 MayHigh Street
WH Smith buyer faces year-long ban from mass store closures
The new owner of WH Smith’s high street chain has effectively been banned from enacting widespread store closures for at least 12 months following the acquisition of the chain in March. According to Sky News, WH Smith would have the right to cancel a year-long transitional services agreement (TSA) with…
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Apr- 2025 -25 AprilNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-25/4/25
The John Lewis Partnership has appointed Andy Mounsey as its new chief financial officer, effective immediately. Mounsey, who had been serving as interim CFO since last autumn, brings 13 years of experience within the business, including roles as Group Finance and Strategy director. A chartered accountant with prior experience at…
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25 AprilHigh Street
Hobbycraft set to close nine stores
Hobbycraft is set to close nine stores, a move affecting up to 126 jobs, as part of a restructure led by new owners Modella Capital, it confirmed to the BBC. The restructuring will also result in redundancies across its Bournemouth head office and distribution centre in Burton-on-Trent but it has…
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25 AprilHigh Street
TOFS places hundreds of jobs at risk under new revival plans
Nearly 1000 jobs at The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) reportedly could be at risk as the company embarks on a survival plan which hinges on widespread rent cuts, according to Sky News. Modella Capital, the new owner of TOFS, has reportedly drawn up plans to renegotiate rents at 88 of…
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