Author: Dave Antrobus
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned ads for brands Zoe and Huel.The decision follows misleading endorsements by entrepreneur Steven Bartlett.Bartlett’s roles with the brands were not disclosed, influencing ASA’s ruling.Consumers were potentially misled by the lack of transparency in these ads.Both companies have acknowledged the ASA’s decision and provided assurances.The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has recently imposed a ban on online advertisements for nutrition brands Zoe and Huel, following endorsements by Steven Bartlett that were deemed misleading. The affected adverts, shared on Facebook, were published between February and March and featured quotes from Bartlett, famed for his role in…
Aldi has announced the cessation of its click-and-collect service, effective 18 August, to maintain competitive pricing.The supermarket aims to enhance store efficiency and continue offering affordable products to customers.The decision follows the termination of home delivery for Specialbuys and beverages earlier this year.Aldi is investing heavily in brick-and-mortar expansions with plans for 100 new London stores.The retailer’s strategy includes a significant £550m investment to reach a target of 1,500 UK stores.Aldi has officially decided to discontinue its click-and-collect service on 18 August, a decision driven by the goal to provide customers with the “lowest possible prices.” This operational shift is…
The Annual Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rate increased to 2.2% in July 2024, surpassing the Bank of England’s 2% target.Recent data highlights a 3.1% rise in CPI including owner occupiers’ housing costs (CPIH) compared to last year.Utility expenses, particularly gas and electricity, are primary contributors to this inflationary change.Retailers face challenges as business rates correlate with rising headline inflation figures.A call to action has been made for the government to reconsider longstanding business rate strategies.The latest figures, released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), show that the Annual Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rate rose to 2.2% in…
Primark intensifies its US presence with a targeted campaign.The retailer began its American journey in 2015 with a Boston store.The ambitious goal is 60 US stores by 2026, with 25 currently open.”That’s So Primark” campaign aims to boost brand recognition.The campaign features engaging films highlighting Primark’s unique shopping experience.Primark has embarked on a strategic initiative to enhance its visibility in the United States through the “That’s So Primark” campaign. This effort is part of a broader ambition to expand its footprint in the American market, aiming for 60 operational stores by 2026, building upon the current count of 25.In 2015,…
The rapid advancement towards greater supply chain transparency is exemplified by Tesco’s pioneering implementation of digital passports for clothing.Tesco is proactively adopting digital passports across its F&F fashion collection as the EU mandates enhanced supply chain transparency.Customers will gain comprehensive insights into the origins of materials used in Tesco garments, aligning with emerging European transparency standards.The initiative coincides with stricter EU regulations prohibiting the destruction of unsold clothes and enforcing transparency.Other companies, like Nobody’s Child, are also embracing this technology, promoting informed and conscious consumer choices.The retail sector is undergoing a significant transformation as Tesco introduces digital passports for its…
Go Outdoors is set to open Europe’s largest outdoor store in York’s Vangarde Shopping Park, previously a John Lewis site.The store spans a massive 125,000 sq ft and features 380 brands, including Adidas and Salomon.The opening will create 42 new jobs, with a significant portion being filled by local hires.A unique Alpine Café will provide fresh, locally-sourced meals, enhancing the shopping experience.Brand ambassador Helen Skelton is scheduled to host the opening weekend festivities.In a landmark move, Go Outdoors is preparing to launch what it claims to be the largest outdoor store in Europe, occupying a vast 125,000 sq ft space…
Vinted has responded to user complaints regarding recent changes to delivery options.Several users reported issues accessing courier selections in the Vinted app.The company has restored previous settings following social media backlash.Vinted emphasises its commitment to improving user experience through trials.Financial performance remains strong, with notable revenue growth.Vinted, a prominent second-hand marketplace, has responded to user dissatisfaction concerning modifications to its delivery options earlier this week. On Monday, 5 August, a number of Vinted’s users in the UK encountered difficulties accessing the platform’s courier selection list, which includes services such as Evri, Yodel, InPost, DPD, and Royal Mail.Although users have the…
The ongoing riots across the UK have significantly impacted high street footfall.Foot traffic has declined sharply, with data showing a 4.8% weekly drop from 4 to 7 August.A peak decline of 7.5% was recorded on 7 August, largely attributed to rioting and protests.Regional cities, especially North & Yorkshire and the West Midlands, experienced the greatest impact.Retailers have been compelled to close early, prioritising staff safety amidst escalating tensions.The ongoing riots across the UK have significantly impacted high street footfall, with notable declines observed throughout the first week of August. This period saw a considerable 4.8% week-on-week decrease in the number…
This month’s analysis delves into the latest trends and insights within the fashion industry, highlighting Mytheresa’s success amidst challenges and the impact of store design on customer experience.Mytheresa emerges resilient as other luxury fashion competitors face trading difficulties.Retailers such as Marks & Spencer and Primark invest significantly in enhancing store design.Spring/Summer 2025 brings a fresh wave of womenswear and footwear trends.The Labour government’s entry prompts fashion retailers to assess their progress.Mytheresa continues to thrive in a challenging market environment, distinguishing itself from its luxury competitors who are experiencing adverse trading conditions. The CEO, Michael Kliger, attributes this success to their…
In the face of rising ecommerce demands, the fashion retail sector is grappling with the complexities of customer returns.Customer expectations for returns favour choice, speed, and ideally, no fees, placing pressure on retailers.Retailers are challenged by the need to address the trend of serial returners while maintaining stock and pricing strategies.Paid returns are gaining traction as a strategy, sparking debates on balancing business needs with customer satisfaction.Sustainability is becoming a crucial consideration in return policies, emphasising paperless methods and rental models.In the face of rising ecommerce demands, the fashion retail sector is tackling the complexities inherent in customer returns, a…
