London
This coverage focuses on retail activity, trends, and developments in London, a central hub of the UK retail industry. Reporting highlights flagship store openings, property developments, regional economic factors, consumer behaviour, and strategic moves by both international and domestic brands. Tailored for retail executives and managers, it offers insights into operating and competing in one of the world’s most dynamic retail markets.
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May- 2024 -14 MayNews
Today’s news in brief-14/5/24
Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) is intensifying efforts to sell the Boots chain, engaging advisers for preliminary discussions with potential buyers. No formal sale process has started, but the chain, valued around £7bn, remains of interest. Previously, in 2022, WBA halted sale plans due to market instability, which affected financing. Despite…
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14 MayNews
WHSmith launches new own-brand food range
WHSmith has launched Smith’s Family Kitchen, a brand-new food to go range exclusively available in over 300 WHSmith UK travel stores. Smith’s Family Kitchen, which has been designed specifically for travelling customers, is made up of over 30 quality products including sandwiches, salads, wraps and baguettes. The branding, design, packaging…
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14 MayHealth & Beauty
Boots owner steps up talks with potential buyers for chain
Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), the owner of Boots, has reportedly stepped up efforts to secure a potential buyer for the high street chain. According to Bloomberg, the US company is now working with advisers to hold early discussions with potential bidders. Sources added that no formal sale process for the…
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13 MayNews
Today’s news in brief-13/5/24
The Very Group has named Nadhim Zahawi, former government minister and MP, as its new non-executive chair. Zahawi, who will succeed Aidan Barclay, brings significant experience in digital growth and innovation. He aims to guide the company’s strategic development and explore new business expansion opportunities, potentially involving fresh equity investment.…
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13 MayProperty
Asda unveils plans for mixed-use redevelopment in North West London
Asda has unveiled plans for a mixed-use redevelopment of its 10-acre Park Royal site in North West London. The retailer has partnered with property developer Barratt London on plans to redevelop the Brownfield site which is currently home to its Park Royal Superstore. The proposal, which is subject to planning…
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13 MaySupermarkets
Lidl GB ups staff pay for third time in 12 months
Lidl GB has announced that it is increasing pay for hourly-paid colleagues to a minimum of £12.40 across the country, up from £12, marking the third time it has increased staff pay in the past year. In London, colleagues will see entry level pay rise to £13.65, up from £13.55.…
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13 MayOnline & Digital
Shein accelerates London IPO preparations
Shein is reportedly ramping up its move towards a London IPO after its attempt to float in New York faced regulatory hurdles, sources have told Reuters.One source told Reuters that Shein now plans to update China’s securities regulator on changing the IPO venue and file with the London Stock Exchange…
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9 MayClothing & Shoes
Primark to join the Ashley Centre
Multinational fashion retailer Primark is set to join the Ashley Centre, Epsom’s premier shopping destination. This coincides with the centre undergoing its £7m refurbishment, which is set to see significant upgrades to the scheme, including a refreshed interior and a new external entrance. Primark will occupy 44,000 sq ft in…
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8 MayClothing & Shoes
All Good Things opens London debut store at The O2
Sustainable designer outlet store All Good Things has officially opened at Outlet Shopping at The O2, marking its London debut. Offering a range of “high-quality” clothing and accessories, All Good Things has opened a 4,000 sq ft space located on the upper level of Outlet Shopping at The O2, adjacent…
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3 MayNews
Today’s news in brief-3/5/24
Asda, following strong FY23 financial results, has successfully refinanced £3.2bn of debt, pushing maturities into the next decade. This included issuing significant high-yield bonds and extending its revolving credit facility to October 2028. The refinancing reflects Asda’s robust performance and investor confidence after Moody’s recent upgrade. The Works has completed…
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