Author: Dave Antrobus
Skims, founded by Kim Kardashian, is negotiating for the former Ted Baker store on Regent Street, London.If successful, this would be Skims’ first physical retail presence in the UK.The prime location has been vacant since Ted Baker’s UK store closures in August.Skims’ expansion aligns with its rapid growth trajectory, following openings in the US.The brand, valued at $4bn, is expanding globally, with placements in major international retailers.Skims, the shapewear line established by Kim Kardashian, is in discussions to occupy the erstwhile Ted Baker flagship store at 245 Regent Street, according to reports. This prospective store would serve as Skims’ inaugural…
The open banking landscape in the UK witnessed a robust start in 2024 but requires further bold strategies to overcome existing challenges.In January, open banking payments reached an all-time high in the UK, marking strong initial progress.The unrestricted growth saw user numbers soar to 11.3 million by July, a doubling from 2022 figures.Despite this momentum, regulatory congestion has slowed further advancement, leaving key questions unanswered.The National Payments Vision offers some direction, but more decisive regulatory support is needed for continued growth.In January 2024, the open banking initiative in the UK hit an unprecedented peak with record payment levels. This momentous…
Moonpig reports a significant revenue increase driven by innovation and customer growth.The company’s revenue climbed by 3.8% to £158m for the first half of the year.A notable 42.5% growth in international markets highlighted the brand’s global appeal.Customer engagement soared with Moonpig Plus and Greetz Plus reaching 750,000 members.Despite challenges, the company remains optimistic about meeting its revenue targets.Moonpig has recorded a 3.8% rise in revenue for the first half of the year, reaching £158 million. This growth is attributed largely to robust sales from its main brand, Moonpig, and represents a 10.0% increase year-on-year. Such progress has helped the online…
Iceland Foods is extending its interest-free microloan scheme through Christmas and throughout 2025 to aid customers during financially challenging times.Initially launched in 2022, the scheme aims to offer ethical borrowing alternatives to high-interest and illegal lenders.Families can borrow up to £100 with no interest, repayable at £10 per week, offering flexibility for the financially constrained.The extension of this initiative is a response to the hard economic conditions faced by families during holiday seasons.Iceland’s strategy counters business discontent over governmental budget decisions, focusing instead on consumer support.Iceland Foods has announced the continuation of its interest-free microloan scheme, targeting the financially challenging…
Juicy Couture reopens physical retail in the UK after seven-year hiatus.The new store at Westfield Stratford City offers a 1,200 sq ft immersive experience.Design elements include graffiti artwork, neon lighting, and a metallic runway.The store highlights the holiday campaign ‘Once Upon a Time’, with themed products.The UK retail strategy shifted in 2017, focussing on ecommerce and concessions.Juicy Couture has re-entered the UK retail market after a seven-year absence, unveiling a new store at Westfield Stratford City. The 1,200 sq ft location provides an immersive experience for customers, embracing the brand’s known casual glamour that combines iconic and modern elements. The…
Nscale, a London-based AI hyperscaler, has raised $155m, marking one of the largest Series A rounds in the UK for 2024.The company aims to expand its data centre capacity from 300MW to 1.3GW, focusing on Europe and North America.Nscale’s innovative liquid cooling technology enhances performance while reducing environmental impact.Investors in the funding round include Sandton Capital Partners, Kestrel 0x1, Blue Sky Capital Managers Ltd, and Florence Capital.Nscale plans to launch a public cloud service to offer bespoke AI solutions to developers by next year.In December 2024, Nscale, an AI hyperscaler based in London, successfully secured $155 million in a Series…
Boohoo Group is urging its shareholders to reject Mike Ashley’s board proposals ahead of a crucial meeting on 20 December.Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) has advised against appointing Ashley and Lennon to Boohoo’s board.ISS has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the superficial engagement of Mike Ashley with Boohoo’s operations.Boohoo’s leadership emphasises a focused strategy under new CEO Dan Finley to drive shareholder value.Frasers Group’s attempts at control may be hindered by its declining sales performance.Boohoo Group has once more rallied its shareholders to dismiss proposals for board appointments suggested by Frasers Group’s Mike Ashley, ahead of their decisive…
John Lewis Partnership strengthens its alliance with Caffè Nero by introducing new in-store cafés in select locations, enhancing customer experience.The collaboration has resulted in five new Caffè Nero cafés within Waitrose stores, with another in a John Lewis department store.This expansion marks a continuation of a relationship that began in 2021 with free hot drinks for loyalty card members.Free coffee machines are now a staple in 320 Waitrose stores due to customer demand, serving nearly 25 million drinks.Charlotte Di Cello and Will Stratton-Morris emphasise the strategic benefits and community focus of this partnership.The John Lewis Partnership, known for its customer-centric…
The Metropolitan Police has joined an investigation into Boohoo’s corporate espionage and stalking allegations, marking a significant development in the case.Security consultancy Control Risks discovered significant surveillance activities targeting Boohoo executives, prompting wider police involvement.Former CEO John Lyttle’s resignation is reportedly linked to these allegations, which include trespassing and physical assault incidents.The investigation has revealed the use of unregistered surveillance equipment, adding complexity to the situation.Tensions escalate as major shareholder Frasers Group expresses concerns about Boohoo’s leadership amidst the ongoing inquiry.The unfolding drama within Boohoo concerning accusations of corporate espionage has intensified with the involvement of the Metropolitan Police. The…
Primark’s latest venture involves opening four stores across key international locations, marking significant growth.The UK, US, France, and Spain are the latest countries to host new Primark stores.These openings represent a substantial £37 million investment and create 580 new jobs.In Scotland, Primark’s Glasgow Fort opening signifies its 195th UK store.Primark’s expansion also saw the company’s debut in Tours, France, enhancing its European footprint.Primark has embarked on an ambitious expansion, inaugurating four stores in one day across the UK, US, France, and Spain, illustrating the company’s commitment to growth and accessibility. This expansion represents a vital step in Primark’s global growth…
