Author: Sam Allcock

Clarks, a footwear giant nearing its 200th anniversary, is blending innovation with its rich heritage to attract diverse consumer groups.The company has undergone significant transformations since its acquisition by LionRock in 2021, focusing on store revamps and digital presence.Collaborations with designers like Martine Rose and Ronnie Feig have enhanced Clarks’ contemporary appeal while retaining traditional craftsmanship.The introduction of immersive Modern Workshop stores aims to engage consumers with a mix of innovation and craftsmanship.Clarks continues to expand its global presence with new ecommerce sites and flagship stores, leveraging metaverse technology to capture Gen Z.Clarks, established in Somerset in 1825, is on…

After a year since the government-commissioned review on university spin-outs, concerns around equity splits have been addressed.Professor Irene Tracey highlighted a significant shift in investor attitudes towards spin-out funding, suggesting a dramatic improvement.Co-author Dr Andrew Williamson emphasised the previous misplacement of focus on equity demands, overshadowing broader positive aspects.A total of 49 UK universities are now aligning with the review guidelines, enhancing technology transfer and support for smaller institutions.The government’s financial commitments demonstrate actions towards the review’s recommendations, aiming to improve venture investments.Since the publication of the government-commissioned review on university spin-outs, the once contentious issue of equity splits has…

Space NK has reported significant financial growth, marked by a notable increase in sales and profits.Pre-tax profits soared from £1.5 million to £7.5 million, while turnover surged 34% to £196.5 million.Online and shop sales saw a robust increase, reflecting strong customer engagement across all age categories.The under-25 demographic showed a remarkable 164% growth, boosting overall customer numbers.Space NK is set to expand further with a new store opening in Milton Keynes.Space NK has demonstrated impressive financial performance, highlighted by a dramatic rise in sales and profits over the past financial year. Pre-tax profits increased fivefold from £1.5 million to notable…

Morrisons is set to shutter its Rathbones bakery, imperiling 400 jobs. The company cites continued losses despite investment.Discussions for a possible acquisition by Hovis collapsed, leaving no recovery path.The company assures efforts will be made to reassign affected staff elsewhere within the Morrisons group.Morrisons assures that its Market Street bakeries will remain operational and unaffected by this closure.Despite exploring alternatives, the bakery’s pre-tax losses significantly influenced the closure decision.Morrisons has announced plans to close its Rathbones bakery, a decision poised to affect 400 employees due to the facility’s persistent unprofitability. The decision follows a comprehensive review of the business, during…

London marks a significant step in green transport with the deployment of quick-charging electric buses.The newly launched buses can be charged in just six minutes, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.This initiative aligns with the mayor’s aim for a zero-emission bus fleet by 2030.The buses operate on a 15-mile route, demonstrating their capability on long journeys.Advanced safety and customer-focused features mark these buses as a significant upgrade.The roll-out of quick-charging electric buses on London’s 358 route signifies a noteworthy advancement in public transport. This strategic move is part of a broader commitment to achieving a zero-emission bus fleet by the…

Several major publishers are shifting towards generative AI to uncover new revenue methods.DMG Media, the owner of the Daily Mail, has invested in ProRata.ai, valuing it at approximately $130 million.The Guardian, Telegraph, and Sky News have secured licensing agreements with the AI firm ahead of its search engine launch.Concerns about the use of copyrighted content in AI models continue to mount among media outlets.ProRata.ai offers compensation to publishers, addressing industry worries about content usage without permission.Several leading publishing groups are increasingly looking towards generative AI as a potential new stream of revenue. DMG Media, known for its ownership of the…

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is probing Forest, a London-based e-bike company, over allegations of misleading advertising.Forest claims its services offer 10 minutes of free use daily, despite fees for unlocking and service charges.Confusion arises from promotional materials, which suggest free access without clearly mentioning associated fees.Forest asserts transparency in its pricing at signup and via its app, though complaints suggest otherwise.The company, formerly Human Forest, highlights its commitment to zero-emission travel and affordability despite current scrutiny.The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has initiated an investigation into Forest, a firm known for providing e-bike rentals in London. These proceedings follow claims…

In light of recent legislative changes and delays, British rail operators are facing difficulties in making long-term investment decisions.The CEO of Tracsis highlights the hesitation among operators to commit to new technology amidst ongoing uncertainties.Legislative delays in reforming the rail network are creating significant frustrations in the sector.Proposed reforms aim to transfer passenger services to public ownership, potentially affecting investment dynamics.Despite challenges, modernisation and digital solutions present growth opportunities for technology suppliers like Tracsis.British rail operators are currently navigating a complex financial landscape as they face significant challenges in making long-term investment decisions. The widely discussed reforms, which propose expanded…

Hurr partners with Deliveroo to offer rapid fashion rental delivery in central London.Starting 20 November, Hurr’s fashion rentals can reach customers in just 20 minutes.The service covers over 50 dresses from premium brands available for quick delivery.Deliveroo’s bike couriers facilitate this fast delivery service without offering return pickups.This partnership highlights a shift in the fashion rental industry aiming for heightened convenience.Fashion rental platform, Hurr, has formed a strategic partnership with Deliveroo to revolutionise delivery times for its customers in central London. This collaboration allows Hurr’s customers to receive their fashion rental orders in a remarkable time frame of just 20…

Lingerie retailer Ann Summers announces redundancies due to economic challenges.The retailer operates around 90 stores with a workforce exceeding 1,000.CEO Maria Hollins cites rising costs and high taxation as significant pressures.Despite a recent 4.5% turnover increase, cost-cutting measures are necessary.Growth plans continue alongside cost-reducing strategies to balance market challenges.Ann Summers has confirmed the redundancy of a small number of staff members, attributing this decision to the tough trading conditions currently impacting the retail sector. With an established presence through approximately 90 stores across the UK and Ireland, Ann Summers employs over 1,000 individuals. The company, known for its lingerie and…