Author: Sam Allcock

Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Chinese goods have sparked concern among economists. A 60% levy, alongside a 20% tariff on other imports, could pose significant challenges for the UK. Such measures may hinder economic growth, urging strategic responses.Economic analysts predict these tariffs could lead to a substantial 0.9% reduction in the UK’s GDP. This would equate to a £20 billion hit, underlining the urgency for Britain to bolster green technology and explore alternative trade strategies.The Implications of Trump’s Tariff ProposalsDonald Trump’s proposed tariffs, featuring a 60% duty on Chinese imports and 20% on others, could drastically impact the UK economy.…

Amid economic challenges, Pets at Home is exploring various measures to address financial pressures.The company’s chief executive has acknowledged the potential need for job cuts and price increases due to rising costs.An estimated £18 million cost increase is anticipated from elevated National Insurance and National Living Wage expenses.Currently, there are no definitive plans for job losses, but the possibility cannot be dismissed.Retailers, including Pets at Home, are reassessing cost structures to mitigate financial liabilities.Pets at Home is navigating through heightened economic pressures, as the company confronts the financial challenges posed by rising National Insurance and National Living Wage requirements. The…

The nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services by President-elect Donald Trump has stirred considerable debate in the health sector. Many experts voice concerns about Kennedy’s unconventional views, particularly on vaccination, potentially influencing US and global health policies.His appointment comes at a time when America plays a critical role in the global health arena, investing billions annually. Kennedy’s long-standing scepticism about vaccines and focus on chronic diseases over infectious ones could signal a shift in priorities, echoing significantly beyond US borders.Upon the announcement of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination as Secretary of Health…

John Lewis, a major UK retailer, has expressed concern about the impact of rising employment costs due to forthcoming National Minimum Wage increases.The head of distribution for John Lewis, John Munnelly, highlighted apprehensions about the company’s financial stability amidst these changes.The increase in labour costs is seen as a potential obstacle to the company’s ongoing recovery efforts.From April, the National Living Wage is set to rise by 6.7% to £12.21 per hour, posing significant financial implications.The National Minimum Wage for young workers aged 18 to 20 will see a substantial increase of 16%, raising it to £10 per hour.In a…

Leading luxury womenswear brand Joseph has infused fresh vision by recruiting Mario Arena from JW Anderson as Creative Director.Arena brings over three decades of experience and is known for his recent role at JW Anderson overseeing product and design.Previously, Arena has contributed to the prestigious Hungarian brand Nanushka and worked with designer Christopher Kane.Arena will spearhead creative operations from Joseph’s new design office situated at their Fulham headquarters.His inaugural collection for the brand is scheduled for release in the spring/summer of 2026.Luxury womenswear brand Joseph has made a significant addition to its leadership team by appointing Mario Arena, formerly of…

Frasers Group may soon be demoted from the FTSE 100 due to declining share value amidst tensions with Boohoo Group. The company’s shares have seen a significant drop of over 10% recently.The market capitalisation of Frasers Group has fallen to £3.3 billion, a factor contributing to its potential demotion to the FTSE 250, as per the quarterly FTSE index review.Frasers Group has tried to influence Boohoo Group’s leadership by urging the replacement of its chair, Mahmud Kamani, with Mike Ashley, causing shares to dip further.Alongside Frasers, B&M is also expected to exit the FTSE 100, as the company’s shares have…

The conclusion of Waitrose’s two-part Christmas campaign has been unveiled, capturing substantial engagement worldwide.Part one of ‘Sweet Suspicion, A Waitrose Mystery’ set the stage for a captivating festive whodunit.The final advertisement reveals the mystery behind the missing Red Velvet Bauble Dessert.Prominent actors, including Matthew Macfadyen, play pivotal roles in the plot.The campaign has sparked widespread discussion and participation on multiple platforms.Waitrose has successfully released the culminating segment of its highly engaging two-part Christmas advertisement. As the initial phase, ‘Sweet Suspicion, A Waitrose Mystery,’ gained significant attention earlier this month, the culmination has been eagerly anticipated by a broad audience. The…

Supermodel Kate Moss partners with Zara to release a highly anticipated “party capsule” collection, launching on 30th November.The collection will feature a variety of dresses, coats, and accessories, curated in collaboration with stylist Katy England.Laser cut dresses, knitwear, and coats are among the highlights, reflecting a blend of modern and vintage inspirations.Prints such as leopard and a 1930s vintage tea dress add a unique flair to the otherwise sophisticated attire.The collection offers affordability with retail prices starting at £17.99, available online and in select stores worldwide.Kate Moss has teamed up with renowned fashion retailer Zara to introduce her debut “party…

The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) has initiated a campaign to raise £10,000 aimed at providing essential items to families in need within the fashion sector.The funds generated will be utilised to supply much-needed children’s essentials like bedding, furniture, and clothing.A recent survey highlights that 80% of industry parents are worried about keeping their children warm during the colder months.Industry partners, including Bedding brand Vision Linens, have already commenced donations to support this cause.The Drapers Awards have contributed significantly, raising £7,100 towards FTCT’s mission.The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) has started a fundraising effort to gather £10,000 to…

Frasers Group expands its international footprint through the acquisition of Holdsport, a leading South African sporting goods retailer.The transaction aims to broaden Frasers’ product range and geographic reach, leveraging Holdsport’s local market expertise.Holdsport’s established relationships with major brands like Nike and adidas are key assets in this strategic acquisition.The addition of over 88 stores in South Africa and Namibia strengthens Frasers’ position in the sport and leisure sector.Frasers CEO Michael Murray highlights the potential for growth combining Holdsport’s regional expertise with Frasers’ scale.Frasers Group has strategically expanded its international presence by acquiring South African sporting goods retailer, Holdsport, from Old…