Author: Dave Antrobus
Lingerie retailer Ann Summers announces the launch of a unique online marketplace.The platform will debut on 16 July, honouring Jacqueline Gold’s legacy.With an investment of £1.2m, Ann Summers aims to enhance market presence.Despite search challenges, the platform will not include sex products.CEO Maria Hollins emphasizes digital growth in the company’s strategy.Ann Summers is set to launch a dedicated online marketplace for lingerie on 16 July, a date chosen to commemorate the birthday of its former executive chair, Jacqueline Gold. Gold was instrumental in shaping the brand’s direction until her passing in 2023, and her influence remains evident in these new…
The recent cyber attack on Shoe Zone highlights critical vulnerabilities in retail cybersecurity.Shoe Zone swiftly acted to halt unauthorised access, demonstrating crisis management readiness.Specialist consultants and regulatory bodies, ICO and NCSC, have been engaged for investigation.Ecommerce operations continue unaffected, maintaining customer and supplier transactions.Regulatory compliance requires prompt breach notification to avoid severe financial penalties.The recent cyber attack on Shoe Zone underscores significant vulnerabilities within the retail sector’s cybersecurity frameworks. With an increase in cyber threats, the incident serves as a stark reminder for organisations to bolster their defense mechanisms.Shoe Zone promptly initiated measures to halt the unauthorised access, underscoring the…
Adidas is launching its ‘Pulse’ concept stores in the UK, marking a significant expansion in retail.The first UK ‘Pulse’ store opens in Edinburgh this summer with Glasgow to follow.’Pulse’ stores offer a mix of modular display fixtures and self-service features.Adidas is expanding its physical retail footprint with these new store openings.The retail parks in Edinburgh and Glasgow are expected to see increased footfall.Adidas is set to bring its innovative ‘Pulse’ retail concept to the United Kingdom, expanding its physical presence significantly this summer. The initiative marks an important step for the brand, aiming to reach value-seeking consumers through a novel…
New research reveals persistent lack of ethnic diversity in retailer leadership teams.Over a third of retailers maintain exclusively white boards, highlighting minimal progress.Ethnic minority representation on boards sees a modest rise, yet challenges remain.Gender diversity improves, but disparities persist in senior management roles.Retailers are treating diversity and inclusion as priorities, but wider impact needed.New findings from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and MBS Group underscore the enduring challenge of ethnic diversity in retail leadership. A significant portion of retailers, particularly smaller firms, are noted to have all-white boards. Additionally, over 50% of executive committees lack any ethnic diversity, suggesting minimal…
Matalan has achieved a significant reduction in pre-tax losses despite a decrease in sales revenue.The retail company reported a 44% reduction in pre-tax losses, amounting to £60 million for the fiscal year ending 24 February 2024.Revenue experienced a 6% decline, attributed to strategic decisions and challenging market conditions.Improved gross margins by 8% to £495 million were observed, driven by successful buying strategies and reduced discount levels.The business’s liquidity has notably improved, with unrestricted cash reaching £123 million.Matalan has successfully reduced its pre-tax losses by 44%, bringing it down to £60 million for the year ending 24 February 2024. This improvement…
Aspinal of London has appointed Laura Brown as the new CEO.Brown brings extensive experience from her previous roles, including at Harrods and Dubai Mall.Aspinal anticipates continued growth under Brown’s leadership, both in the UK and internationally.The company started online in 2001 and now boasts multiple physical stores in London.Aspinal’s chairman, Iain Burton, expressed enthusiasm for Brown’s appointment and future vision.Accessories brand Aspinal of London has strategically appointed Laura Brown as its new CEO, marking a pivotal change in leadership aimed at propelling the company further into the luxury sector. Brown, who formerly held the position of retail director at Harrods…
The Drapers Footwear Awards 2024 was a grand event celebrating excellence in the footwear industry, held on 20 June at Grosvenor House, London.Prestigious brands like Dr Martens, Birkenstock, and French Sole were among the attendees, reflecting the calibre of the event.Comedian Jayde Adams hosted the ceremony, which honoured outstanding contributions to the sector.Clarks was named Footwear Business of the Year, highlighting their industry-leading performance.Stuart Paver, chair of Pavers Shoes, received the Lifetime Achievement Award.The Drapers Footwear Awards 2024 once again captivated the industry with its celebration of excellence. Held at the distinguished Grosvenor House in London, the event on 20…
At the Drapers Future of Fashion conference, Paul Hornby discussed AI’s influence on fashion retail.Hornby highlighted both risks and opportunities AI presents to the industry.The discussion focused on leveraging AI for improved customer experience.Emphasis was placed on embracing new technologies while being cautious.Hornby shared strategic advice on navigating AI’s evolving role in fashion.At the Drapers Future of Fashion conference held on 19 June, Paul Hornby, the digital customer experience director at The Very Group, examined the profound impact of artificial intelligence in reshaping the fashion retail landscape. He emphasised the dual nature of AI as both a beneficial tool and…
The adoption of AI by Boohoo is reshaping how fashion trends are identified and utilised.At the Drapers Future of Fashion conference, Jonny Longden shared insights into AI-driven trend forecasting.Artificial intelligence platforms are crucial for maintaining relevance and agility in fashion retail.Boohoo leverages emerging tech to innovate and adapt to fast-evolving fashion landscapes.This strategy underscores the importance of digital tools in modern fashion industry dynamics.At the recent Drapers Future of Fashion conference, insights were shared on how Boohoo is leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline and enhance trend forecasting. Jonny Longden, the digital director at Boohoo Group, emphasised the role of AI-powered…
At the recent Drapers Future of Fashion Conference, key insights were shared on improving data skills through diversity and inclusion.Sandra Knappman, a prominent data consultant, highlighted the necessity for organisations to enhance their data capabilities by embracing diverse perspectives.Panellists emphasised the critical role of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation within the fashion retail sector.Discussions underscored the potential of apprenticeships to improve social mobility and cultivate essential data skills.A focus was also placed on the importance of nurturing a positive company culture to sustain growth and innovation.At the Drapers Future of Fashion Conference held on 19 June, notable experts including…
