Author: Scott Dylan

The demand for data centres is escalating as AI technology advances, creating significant energy challenges.Glasgow-founded Iomart identifies increased power needs as the industry’s primary challenge.Despite early AI hype, substantial impact on cloud storage demands has emerged in recent years.The UK’s support for data infrastructure is evidenced by significant investments from US tech firms.Access to an enhanced power supply remains a critical issue for data centre expansion.A surge in data centre demand, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), has been acknowledged by Glasgow-founded cloud solutions provider Iomart as a significant challenge due to increased energy requirements. Despite AI’s early hype,…

Britain’s competition watchdog, the CMA, affirms that supermarket loyalty schemes offer real savings.Loyalty programmes have gained traction among UK supermarket giants amid economic challenges.Analysis of 50,000 products reveals 92% of loyalty discounts are genuine.Consumer trust in loyalty pricing remains varied, yet evidence shows fair practice.Loyalty savings aren’t always the lowest, urging consumers to compare options.The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has confirmed that supermarket loyalty schemes indeed provide genuine savings. This comes after an extensive review involving around 50,000 promotional grocery items, with findings indicating that 92% of these items truly offer discounts compared to their usual prices. Such schemes…

JD Sports has completed its acquisition of French sneaker retailer Courir, reinforcing its presence in the European market.The acquisition, valued at €520 million, received necessary approval from the European Commission.Courir, a leading name in the French sneaker market, operates numerous stores across Europe and beyond.JD Sports will divest certain Courir stores to comply with regulatory requirements.This acquisition aligns with JD Sports’ strategy to widen its customer base and strengthen its market position.JD Sports, a major player in the sportswear industry, has successfully acquired the French sneaker retailer Courir. This move, officially completed at a cost of €520 million, marks a…

Pets at Home experienced a modest revenue increase despite market challenges.The company’s Vet Group showed significant growth, boasting an 18.6% rise in revenue.Retail revenue experienced slight growth, maintaining consistent sales figures.Profit before tax increased significantly, but future projections have been lowered.The company remains confident in long-term market growth due to strategic investments.Pets at Home reported a total group revenue rise of 1.9% to £789.1 million in the first half of FY25, despite operating under ‘subdued’ market conditions. This modest increase was largely attributed to the strong performance of the Vet Group. The Vet Group outperformed with an impressive revenue growth…

JD Sports Fashion has officially acquired French retailer Courir for €520m after European Commission approval.The deal adds 323 stores across several European countries to JD Sports’ portfolio.A strategic move will see 21 Courir stores divested to German retailer Snipes by 2026.The acquisition aims to broaden JD Sports’ consumer base, focusing on a diverse demographic.Despite growing revenues, JD Sports forecasts lower year-end profits due to mild weather conditions.JD Sports Fashion has successfully completed its acquisition of Courir, a French sportswear and footwear retailer, in a transaction valued at €520 million (£452 million). This acquisition marks a significant expansion for JD Sports,…

Amidst easing inflation, consumers have begun adjusting their grocery shopping habits, sparking interest among supermarket bosses ahead of the festive season.Recent trends indicate a shift towards premium brands as inflationary pressures lessen, a stark contrast to previous years of bargain hunting.Upscale retailers report significant sales increases, yet discount supermarkets like Lidl maintain strong market shares, highlighting diverse consumer spending.Interest in premium own-label goods grows, with more shoppers choosing gourmet and niche food products over budget options.Retailers adapt by expanding premium offerings and on-the-go meals, observing changes in consumer dining preferences.Easing inflationary pressures have prompted consumers to alter their grocery shopping…

Appointing leaders in health is a crucial decision, especially when politics intermingle with science. President Trump’s recent nominations for key health positions have sparked debate among experts. These appointments see a mix of promise and concern, particularly in light of maintaining the separation between scientific integrity and political influence.The selected leaders, including Dr. Janette Nesheiwat and Dr. Marty Makary, face the monumental task of prioritising public health amidst political pressures. Their professional careers are set against the background of public expectation and scrutiny. The challenge will be to safeguard the unbiased and factual guidance expected from health officials.The recent appointments…

As festivities fill our tables with abundant meals, safeguarding leftovers becomes essential. With a rise in foodborne illnesses, understanding storage is key.Proper leftover management protects against health risks. By adopting smart storage and heating practices, one can enjoy safe, delicious meals days after celebrations.Understanding Holiday Leftover RisksThe holiday season often brings copious amounts of delicious food. Once the feast is over, leftovers can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not handled properly. Pathogens like Salmonella, E.coli, and Listeria thrive in improperly stored food, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. Ensuring leftover safety is crucial to enjoy meals without health…

Frasers Group has strategically acquired South African retailer Holdsport, marking a significant expansion in its global footprint.The acquisition includes the integration of retail chains such as Sportsmans Warehouse and Shelflife, offering diverse retail options across South Africa and Namibia.In the fiscal year leading up to February 2024, Holdsport reported a robust sales figure exceeding R3 billion across its 88 retail outlets.The acquisition aligns with Frasers Group’s aim to diversify its offerings and enhance its presence in emerging markets.CEO Michael Murray expressed confidence in leveraging Holdsport’s local expertise to drive growth in the dynamic African market.In a strategic move to bolster…

Transport for London (TfL) is taking legal action against e-bike operators to address the obstruction of pathways in the city.TfL plans to impound e-bikes that pose a danger or block paths, and may dispose of them if necessary.Operators will be financially liable for costs related to removal, storage, and disposal of blocked bikes.The initiative includes creating more e-bike parking spaces, with a significant investment towards this infrastructure.New legislation is proposed as a long-term solution for consistent regulation of e-bike operations.Transport for London has announced its decision to pursue legal measures against e-bike rental companies whose bikes obstruct pedestrian pathways. This…