Sustainability
This coverage examines sustainability initiatives and challenges within the UK retail sector. Reporting highlights environmental strategies, supply chain improvements, energy efficiency, packaging innovation, and leadership commitments aimed at reducing impact and meeting regulatory expectations. Tailored for executives and managers, it provides insights to support sustainable decision-making and long-term planning.
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Jan- 2024 -31 JanuaryNews
Today’s news in brief-31/1/24
The Body Shop is set to sell parts of its business in Europe and Asia. The deal involves an agreement with an international family office, covering around 14% of the business. This move is part of The Body Shop’s strategy to prioritise key markets and global franchise partner relationships. The…
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31 JanuaryFeatures
It’s not all just fun and games
The UK toy industry reported that its annual sales dropped by nearly £200m in 2023. Sales dropped by 5% to £3.5bn, according to the annual toy industry report by the market research company Circana. The report stated that the decline reflected the broader impacts of challenging UK economic conditions. So,…
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31 JanuarySupermarkets
M&S introduces recyclable paper packaging across Cafés
Marks and Spencer has introduced new recyclable paper packaging across its range of sandwiches and toasties that are available in all M&S Cafés across the UK. The news comes as M&S plans to remove 1 billion units of plastic packaging by 2027 on its roadmap to net zero by 2040. …
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31 JanuaryNews
H&M announces new CEO as Q4 sales dip
H&M has today (31 January) announced the appointment of its new CEO, Daniel Ervér, as the group struggled to maintain profitability in Q4 2023. Former CEO Helena Helmersson has decided to step down after four years, saying that the role has been personally demanding, although leaving the position has not…
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25 JanuaryNews
Co-op launches sustainability pilot for farmers
Co-op has announced a pilot scheme to financially reward farmers in its beef supply chain for sustainable farming practices. In partnership with its supplier Dunbia, the convenience retailer outlined plans to rapidly decarbonise its supply chain in a new ‘Beef Sustainability Pilot’, which will see farmers rewarded for reducing their…
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24 JanuaryAdvice
A retailer’s guide to navigating economic downturns
1. Analyse and adjust inventory Start by analysing your inventory. Identify slow-moving or non-essential products and consider reducing their quantities. Focus on essential items that customers are likely to continue purchasing even during tough times. Be cautious about overstocking to avoid tying up capital in excess inventory. 2. Enhance cost…
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23 JanuaryAdvice
Sustainable packaging and e-commerce: what more can be done?
The Thanksgiving weekend of 2023, including Cyber Monday, saw $38 billion in online sales in the US, while e-commerce in the UK is forecast to exceed 38% of all retail sales by 2025. That’s an awful lot of packages being delivered to homes. Brands that sell a lot (or all)…
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22 JanuaryNews
Today’s news in brief- 22/1/24
John Lewis, as part of its turnaround strategy, has reportedly alerted employees to the possibility of smaller pay rises. The retailer is considering changes in salary policies, aiming for more flexibility and sustainability. Dame Sharon White’s management team would gain control over performance-linked pay rises, potentially leading to fewer staff…
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22 JanuaryNews
Retailer’s guide to post-purchase customer engagement
Thank You Goes a Long Way The first step in post-purchase engagement is simple but often overlooked – say thank you. Send a personalised thank-you email or message shortly after the purchase. Express your gratitude and reassure customers that their business is appreciated. This not only makes customers feel valued…
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19 JanuaryAdvice
The ultimate guide to retail digital transformation
The retail sector faces a host of challenges in the digital age, including: Changing consumer expectations: Consumers now expect seamless, personalised, and omnichannel shopping experiences. Competition: E-commerce giants and digitally-native brands have disrupted traditional retail. Data overload: Retailers must harness vast amounts of data for insights and decision-making. Operational efficiency:…
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