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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Apr- 2025 -3 AprilNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-3/4/25
The Co-op has reported a sixfold surge in full-year pre-tax profits, rising to £161m from £28m the previous year, despite facing over £200m in new headwinds and investment costs. This growth was driven by increased operating profits, which climbed by £34m to £131m, alongside improved returns from Funeralcare plan investments.…
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3 AprilFeatures
Is going private the next big trend in retail?
Walgreens Boots Alliance was acquired by the American private equity firm Sycamore Partners in a deal valued at up to $23.7bn (£18.3 billion). Around the same time, Pepco Group, owner of Poundland, received interest from potential buyers for its 825-store Poundland business in the UK. With major retailers opting for…
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3 AprilPeople Moves
Sainsbury’s appoints two non-exec directors to board
Sainsbury has today (3 April) announced that Katie Bickerstaffe and Steve Hare will join the board as non-executive directors following the AGM on 3 July 2025. Bickerstaffe will be a member of the corporate responsibility and sustainability committee and the nomination and governance committee and Hare will join the audit…
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2 AprilNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-2/4/25
Topps Tiles reported a 4% rise in half-year sales to £127.7m, with underlying growth accelerating to 4.4% in Q2. Trade sales surged 12%, supported by an 11% increase in active traders. However, the retailer warned that National Living Wage and National Insurance hikes will add £4m to annual costs from…
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2 AprilFeatures
How can a late Easter impact retailers?
Seasonal calendar moments continue to be crucial drivers for retailers. According to the latest BRC-Sensormatic data, total year-on-year footfall in the UK dropped by 5.4% in March—an increase from the 0.2% decline in February—largely due to Easter falling in April this year, compared with March last year. This calendar shift…
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Mar- 2025 -31 MarchFeatures
Tesco’s free food trial: a game-changer in tackling food waste?
Tesco’s new initiative to give away close-to-expiry food for free is making waves in the UK’s retail and sustainability circles. With an increasing focus on food waste reduction, this trial could signal a significant shift in how supermarkets might handle surplus products. But could this move from the UK’s largest…
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31 MarchFeatures
Topshop’s comeback: a boon for the high street?
Topshop is back. Once a beacon of British high street fashion, the brand has teased its return to reclaim its position in the retail landscape. But in an era dominated by digital-first brands, resale platforms, and evolving consumer habits, does Topshop have what it takes to thrive again? The journey…
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28 MarchNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-28/3/25
WHSmith has agreed to sell its high street retail arm to Modella Capital in a £76m deal, marking a significant shift for the historic brand. The acquisition includes around 480 stores across the UK, which will be rebranded as TGJones. WHSmith will retain its travel and international operations, including stores…
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26 MarchNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief-26/3/25
John Lewis is close to securing approval for its housing project in Reading, transforming a former customer collection facility into 215 homes, including 49% family-sized units and 10% affordable rentals. The development, featuring shared workspaces, a gym, and communal areas, is part of an £80m investment in rental housing. A…
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26 MarchClothing & Shoes
Uniqlo’s popularity with Gen-Z boosts FY profits by 57% to €221.7m
Uniqlo’s European operations has seen its profits jump by 57.5% to €221.7m (£185.4m) in the year to 31 August 2024, thanks to the retailer’s popularity with Gen-Z shoppers. Turnover at the Japanese clothing retailer has continued to increase year-on-year by 30%, meaning that its gross profit margin has been maintained…
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