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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May- 2025 -1 MayDepartment Stores
Ikea officially opens Oxford Street store
Ikea has today (1 May) announced the opening of its Oxford Street store in London. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at 10am, with Peter Jelkeby, CEO and chief sustainability officer Ikea UK and Ireland, joined by Ikea co-workers, store manager Matt Gould, Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, and Ambassador…
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Apr- 2025 -28 AprilComment
Four D2C trends to watch in 2025
Personalisation Personalisation has long been a buzzword in retail, but in 2025 it is becoming a baseline consumer expectation, with many now viewing tailored shopping experiences as a standard rather than a luxury. Personalisation in 2025 goes beyond just product recommendations; it’s about creating an entire experience that speaks to…
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23 AprilNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-23/4/25
THG has rejected an unsolicited takeover bid for its Myprotein brand from Selkirk, describing the offer as “undervalued” and lacking sufficient funding. The proposal, which valued Myprotein between £400m and £600m, was largely structured in Selkirk shares, with additional cash payments dependent on new equity and debt issuance. THG’s board…
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23 AprilFeatures
The potential ripple effect of Asda’s Rollback return
Asda has brought back its “iconic” Rollback scheme, reducing prices on more than 4,000 products in stores and online. As a result, more than £4bn has been wiped off the value of Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencer stock amid fears that rival Asda will step up the grocery price…
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23 AprilClothing & Shoes
Outdoor & Cycle Concepts rebrands to Cotswold Outdoor Group
Outdoor and Cycle Concepts, the British company behind high-street brands Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Need and Snow + Rock, has been renamed to Cotswold Outdoor Group. Founded in the Cotswolds over 50 years ago in 1974, the company has updated its name to better reflect its business portfolio in 2025. The…
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22 AprilFeatures
How retailers can tackle ESG risks amid greenwashing crackdown
Starting from April, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) gains new powers to fine businesses for misleading greenwashing claims. With fines of up to 10% of global turnover or £300,000 for breaches, this crackdown underscores the rising importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risk management. Retailers, particularly those involved…
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17 AprilSupermarkets
Sainsbury’s forecasts flat profits ahead despite 7.2% uplift in FY25
Sainsbury’s has forecast flat profits for the coming year, revealing that it expects its operating profit to drop to around £1bn, below market expectations of £1.08bn. This comes despite seeing its operating profits jump 7.2% to £1.036bn for the year ended 1 March 2025. Overall, the company posted a profit…
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11 AprilNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-11/4/25
Uniqlo owner Fast Retailing has raised its profit forecast for the third consecutive year, driven by strong sales in Japan and key international markets, including Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia. The company reported a 12% rise in revenue to JPY 1.79trn (£12.28bn) and an 18.3% increase in profit for…
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11 AprilSupermarkets
Met Police challenges Asda’s Park Royal redevelopment amid safety concerns
The Metropolitan Police is reportedly threatening to block Asda’s proposed mixed-use redevelopment in west London amid concerns over public safety.According to The Telegraph, the Met is demanding “hundreds of thousands” of pounds in developer contributions to fund dealing with the expected surge in residents and to help maintain the “safety…
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4 AprilClothing & Shoes
New Look to ‘supercharge’ digital growth with £30m investment
New Look has secured a £30m investment from shareholders to accelerate its digital transformation and optimise its online experience for customers. Over the last five years the brand has invested significantly to elevate its digital capabilities: upgrading its website and app, building a social media community of 7m followers, and…
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