Author: Scott Dylan

Pinewood Studios’ ambitious plans for a significant expansion have encountered a substantial roadblock due to delays in connecting to the UK’s power grid, Pinewood’s chairman Paul Golding disclosed during a recent call with Business Secretary Jonny Reynolds.Buckinghamshire Council had approved a 1.4 million square foot expansion for Pinewood Studios last year, a project anticipated to generate over 8,000 new jobs and contribute £640 million annually to the economy. However, Golding highlighted that the studio might have to wait until 2030 for a grid connection, seven years after receiving planning permission, according to sources privy to the conversation.Golding’s remarks, made in…

Hotel Chocolat is set to significantly expand its presence in the United Kingdom with the opening of 25 new stores, made possible through backing from Mars Inc.Purchased last year for £534 million, the chocolatier will extend its footprint to cities including Belfast and Glasgow as well as market towns such as Ilkley, West Yorkshire, and Morpeth, Northumberland. The company will also develop existing locations in Nottingham and Chichester, West Sussex. Additionally, Hotel Chocolat will invest £10 million to upgrade its manufacturing facility in Royston, Hertfordshire, creating 250 new jobs.Co-founder and CEO Angus Thirlwell remarked, “It’s definitely a signal of our…

The UK housing market is anticipated to experience a buoyant autumn. This shift is largely driven by potential interest rate cuts and newfound political stability.As buyers regain confidence, the market could become more active, reflecting increased affordability and a positive outlook.Lower Mortgage Rates as a CatalystLower mortgage rates, driven by a likely loosening of monetary policy by the Bank of England, could act as a catalyst for buyers. According to property search website Rightmove, market activity remained robust over the last month despite the distractions of the general election.The number of sales agreed was 15 per cent higher compared to…

London Gateway is on the verge of a significant transformation, positioning itself to challenge Felixstowe as the UK’s largest port.With the opening of a new berth, funded by Dubai Ports World (DP World), the port’s capacity is set to increase dramatically.Expanding Capacity to CompeteThis expansion, supported by Dubai Ports World, aims to increase the port’s capacity by over a third. Positioned on the north bank of the Thames, London Gateway’s new berth will extend its quayside capacity to over a mile. With 16 quay cranes, each as tall as the London Eye, the port will be equipped to handle four…

Amid continued financial challenges, Burberry has appointed Joshua Schulman as its new CEO.Burberry’s revenue has experienced a significant decline, falling by 22% in the first quarter of the fiscal year.The luxury brand’s store sales have plummeted across key regions, impacting its financial health.Burberry has suspended its dividend payments for the fiscal year 2024/25.The company aims to revitalize its brand under new leadership while maintaining its renowned creative heritage.In a strategic move to address ongoing financial difficulties, Burberry has announced the appointment of Joshua Schulman as its new CEO following the immediate departure of Jonathan Akeroyd. Schulman brings extensive experience from…

The fervour surrounding the ongoing Euros has significantly stimulated the British economy, contributing an impressive £3.1 billion. Anticipation is particularly high for the final match on Sunday, where England faces Spain.An estimated £405 million is expected to be spent in pubs and supermarkets alone, as over 17 million people are projected to watch the match in public venues. Fans are likely to spend £70.5 million on drinks and £54.3 million on food. Retailers are forecasted to benefit from a £280.1 million boost, largely from sales of last-minute snacks and drinks, according to research by GlobalData Retail.Tesco, for example, expects to…

The recent Marks & Spencer ad campaign featuring Mark Wright and Spencer Matthews has caught the online community’s attention, becoming a viral sensation.This unique collaboration has inspired numerous retailers to create their own engaging social media content, echoing the campaign’s style.The campaign’s success lies in its personable approach, using relatable characters to forge connections with audiences.Marketing experts emphasise the importance of authenticity and timely engagement within social media campaigns for enhanced consumer resonance.Matalan’s quick response to the trend underscores the need for agility and creativity in the evolving digital marketing landscape.Last Friday, Marks & Spencer introduced reality TV personalities Mark…

Represent is poised to open its first UK store in Manchester, highlighting a significant step in the brand’s brick and mortar expansion.With a new 5,419 sq ft store set to launch this autumn, Represent aims to cement its presence in Manchester city centre.The brand was founded by George and Mike Heaton in 2011, with a strong focus on luxury streetwear.Represent has seen robust financial growth, with a turnover increase of 65% to £80.8m in the past year.Direct-to-consumer sales continue to dominate, comprising 70% of the brand’s revenue, alongside strategic wholesale partnerships.Represent, a luxury streetwear brand founded in 2011 by brothers…

Today marks the final day of trading for fashion retailer Superdry on the London Stock Exchange, concluding nearly 15 years since its initial public offering. The decision forms a crucial part of Superdry’s wider restructuring strategy, previously greenlit last month. Founder and CEO Julian Dunkerton aims to streamline operations and focus on core retail functions. Investment bank Peel Hunt ceases its role as Superdry’s sponsor and adviser with the delisting. The plan also includes significant capital injections and store cost reductions.Today marks the final day of trading for fashion retailer Superdry on the London Stock Exchange, a culmination of nearly…

Marquee Brands has revealed strategic collaborations aimed at expanding BCBG’s reach.G-III Apparel Group will lead the growth of BCBG and BCBG Generation in North America.Group JS International will focus on enhancing BCBG Max Azria’s luxury collections.The partnerships will debut with the 2025 collections, enhancing BCBG’s product offerings.These alliances aim to celebrate and empower the modern, dynamic woman.Marquee Brands, known for managing the likes of Ben Sherman and BCBG, has announced significant strategic partnerships to further propel the BCBG family of brands. These partnerships are poised to expand the reach of BCBG Max Azria, BCBG, and BCBG Generation. The collaboration includes…