John Lewis
This coverage explores John Lewis’s strategy, operations, and performance within the UK retail sector. Reporting includes store and online developments, product innovation, marketing campaigns, financial results, leadership decisions, and employee-owned business dynamics. With a focus on commercial impact and competitive strategy, it provides insights for professionals managing department stores, multi-channel retail, and premium consumer brands.
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Sep- 2020 -28 SeptemberCoronavirus
John Lewis launches new virtual Christmas shop for consumers
Earlier this month John Lewis announced a £635m pre-tax loss for the half-year period ended July 2020. The department store chain is allowing shoppers to ‘walk-through’ its flagship Oxford Circus store and see emerging trends for the Christmas period. John Lewis has also revealed that customers are shopping for Christmas…
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21 SeptemberComment
The window of opportunity for pop-ups
The Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent events of this year have exacerbated the ongoing decline of the British high street, with footfall falling by 81% in April and 48% in July, according to the British Retail Consortium. From John Lewis to Carphone Warehouse to House of Fraser, it seems that no…
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17 SeptemberCoronavirus
John Lewis scraps staff bonus amid £635m pre-tax loss
Department store chain John Lewis Partnership has slashed its staff bonus for the first time since 1953, aftering reporting a £635m pre-tax loss for the half-year period ended July 2020. As result, the Partnership board has confirmed that there will not be a bonus next year given its profit outlook.…
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Aug- 2020 -20 AugustComment
How retailers can use feedback during a crisis to strengthen their brand
It’s no secret that the retail industry has been severely affected by Covid-19-related shutdowns and a crumbling economy. Despite non-essential retail being allowed to open its brick-and-mortar stores, there is still much uncertainty about what exactly lies ahead for the sector. Pair this with the pressure of ensuring brand survival…
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19 AugustComment
Security: The new experience shoppers are seeking in the ‘new normal’?
Retailers have been battling COVID-19 for months. Many traditional brick-and-mortar stores closed. Workforces were scattered — either furloughed or required to work from home. Meantime, online sales have provided a lifeline, as dramatic e-commerce spikes helped firms navigate these trying times. Now, with physical stores starting to reopen, more disruption…
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13 AugustPeople Moves
Morrisons appoints two new non-exec directors
Morrisons has appointed chair of Made.com, Susanne Given and Sky UK CCO, Lyssa McGowan, as non-executive directors with immediate effect. Given and McGowan will also be appointed to the audit, corporate compliance and responsibility, nomination, and remuneration committees. Given is currently chair of Made.com Ltd and Outfittery GmbH. She is…
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4 AugustDepartment Stores
John Lewis launches supplier framework
John Lewis and Partners has announced the launch of a supplier engagement programme entitled ‘Better Jobs’ to all of its 120 UK manufacturing suppliers. The programme, which followed a “successful” trial run, aims to replace traditional ethical audits and “create more rewarding and enriching jobs” for suppliers. John Lewis developed…
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Jul- 2020 -29 JulyDepartment Stores
John Lewis appoints new executive director for people
John Lewis has appointed Nikki Humphrey as executive director for people. Humphrey joins from Virgin Atlantic where she held the position of chief people officer. She succeeds Tracey Killen to the position, who has retired after a 38 year career at the partnership. Effective 1 October, Humphrey will be responsible…
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28 JulyDepartment Stores
Harrods boss warns tourists may not return until 2022
The managing director of the iconic department store Harrods has warned that US and Asian tourists may not return until 2022 after the store revealed a significant drop in the number of visitors to the store. According to The Telegraph, Ward, speaking to investment bank Jeffiries, revealed the number of…
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27 JulyDepartment Stores
Debenhams seeks potential buyer
Debenhams has confirmed that administrators are considering its sale to a third party in a bid to lead the business out of its current administration. According to The Guardian, the department store group has now appointed investment bank Lazard to oversee the sale process, and “hopes to secure a buyer…
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