Author: Sam Allcock

Kingfisher and M&S are reportedly considering bids for Homebase locations.The DIY retailer entered administration last month, posing a risk to its stores.Potential bids cover 20 to 25 stores, which might preserve many jobs.It remains uncertain if the bids reflect a joint or individual effort by the retailers.Home Bargains has also shown interest in a limited number of stores.Kingfisher and M&S, two prominent retailers, are reportedly evaluating bids for the acquisition of several Homebase stores. This development follows Homebase’s recent entry into administration, which has jeopardised numerous store locations and jobs. The urgency is heightened by today’s deadline for submitting offers,…

As the festive season approaches, culinary choices once again take centre stage. Amidst the crowd of popular sides, there’s one that’s often overlooked. It’s simple yet impressively elegant. Spiced Crusted Carrots offer a delightful contrast to heavier mains.Combining vibrant flavours and visual appeal, this humble dish deserves a spot in your holiday repertoire. With minimal prep and a rewarding outcome, these carrots are bound to impress guests. Let’s delve into why they should be your next go-to side dish.The Secret to Simple EleganceSpiced Crusted Carrots might not be the first thing you think of when planning your holiday menus, but…

Some fashion brands are standing against Black Friday discounts by offering alternative initiatives that highlight sustainability and charity.Asket is closing its website on Black Friday, promoting repairs instead of new purchases.Veja introduces ‘Repair Friday’ to encourage shoe repairs and hosting events to foster ecological awareness.Finisterre and Lucy & Yak focus on charity, donating proceeds to environmental and educational causes.Brands like Fristads and Aligne resist Black Friday, urging conscious, sustainable consumption.This year, as retailers rush to maximise profits through discounts, an increasing number of fashion brands are choosing to sidestep the Black Friday frenzy. They are highlighting sustainability and social responsibility…

Thanksgiving often marks the beginning of indulgent celebrations. While enjoying festive meals is delightful, it can equally lead to feelings of bloating and sluggishness. The key to combatting this discomfort lies in post-meal activity.Engaging in certain practices after eating can support digestion and boost energy levels. These strategies ensure you feel refreshed instead of weighed down, adding joy and vitality to your festive season.Take a Family WalkWalking is an excellent, straightforward post-meal activity to counteract Thanksgiving bloat. Research indicates that walking after eating assists with managing blood glucose levels and speeds up stomach emptying, reducing the feeling of fullness and…

Marc and Daniel Granditer are embarking on a new venture with Casa Childrenswear at Bluewater.Their former enterprise, Base Childrenswear, was shut down after Frasers Group administration.The Granditers aim to capitalise on gaps in the premium kidswear market.Casa Childrenswear focuses on independence and market agility, emphasising a comprehensive kids store experience.The Granditers are committed to expanding their physical retail presence despite industry challenges.Marc and Daniel Granditer have launched Casa Childrenswear, a fresh venture in Bluewater shopping centre, following the closure of their previous business, Base Childrenswear, due to Frasers Group’s administration. The Bluewater location is seen as ideal, with its history…

Vente AI, a London startup, raises £500k in funding to automate recruitment processes within six months of its launch.The company has already generated £300k in additional revenue for clients by automating business development.Vente AI’s technology reduces manual lead identification, making recruitment more efficient and cost-effective.The startup plans to use the funding to integrate its technology with existing recruitment tools.The funding round was led by Antler VC, highlighting strong investor confidence in the startup’s potential.Vente AI, based in London, has secured £500,000 in pre-seed funding to further its mission of automating business development for recruiters. The company aims to streamline the…

Morrisons is transitioning to more in-store fulfilment, collaborating with Ocado’s technology while re-evaluating its online operations.The supermarket will cease deliveries from Ocado’s Erith centre, enhancing operations from the Midlands.Morrisons aims to leverage AI technology for efficient online order processing in its store network.Ocado’s CEO highlights the strategic shift as a path to market share growth and operational continuity.Despite previous investments, Ocado’s current valuation faces challenges post-pandemic.Morrisons is set to modify its supply chain strategy by shifting to in-store fulfilment with the support of Ocado’s advanced technology. This decision reflects a strategic response to an increasing demand for their online grocery…

As Christmas approaches, consumer confidence remains low, driven by concerns about the economy.Recent survey reveals a slight improvement in personal financial expectations despite economic anxieties.Retail spending plans show minimal increase, but overall stability in consumer saving and spending.Economic outlook perceptions have deteriorated, influencing pre-Christmas consumer sentiment.Retailers face pressure from increased costs, potentially impacting pricing and employment in 2025.A survey conducted by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) in collaboration with Opinium has highlighted ongoing concerns among consumers regarding the state of the economy as Christmas nears. The survey, conducted between 12 and 15 November, points to a persistent unease about the…

Embarking on a vegetarian journey can be transformative.Thirty years ago, a decision at a Thanksgiving meal sparked a lifelong commitment.The path travelled unveils lessons about self and society, challenging assumptions.Here’s an exploration of insights gained over three decades of meat-free living.Transforming Eating Habits: Insights from Three Decades of VegetarianismThree decades ago, a decision to forgo turkey at Thanksgiving marked the beginning of a vegetarian journey. Characterised then by a fervent zeal uncommon at family gatherings, this choice was inspired by a college course on nonviolence. Today, the commitment remains steadfast, albeit without the fervent evangelising that once defined early interactions.Initially,…

Saint and Sofia, a premium womenswear brand, is set for major growth in the retail sector.Following the success of its first physical store in Covent Garden, the brand plans to open 10 more stores by mid-2027.The expansion targets key London areas based on current customer demographics, with a focus on ‘neighbourhood boutiques’.The company intends to explore wholesale opportunities and achieve B Corp certification in the near future.Saint and Sofia is confident in its vision, supported by a strong customer base and strategic location choices.Saint and Sofia, established by Malcolm and Dessislava Bell in January 2020, has rapidly positioned itself as…