Author: Scott Dylan

Allan Winstanley appointed as CEO of Morleys Stores amidst leadership changes.Winstanley to begin tenure in January 2025 following Nigel Blow’s resignation.Nigel Blow’s appointment as CEO of Fenwick was unexpectedly revoked.Winstanley brings extensive experience from Myer, Sears, and House of Fraser.Morleys operates a network of eight department stores, mostly in Greater London.Allan Winstanley has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Morleys Stores, stepping in after Nigel Blow’s departure. Winstanley’s role will officially commence in January 2025. This leadership transition follows Blow’s resignation in July, after serving as the CEO for eight years. Notably, Blow’s move to Fenwick was…

Marks and Spencer (M&S) reports significant growth in sales and profits for the first half of 2024.The retailer’s market share in clothing has grown for four consecutive years.M&S achieved total sales of £6.5 billion, a 5.8% increase from previous periods.Significant growth observed in both clothing, home, and food sectors.CEO Stuart Machin highlights the success of strategic initiatives driving performance.Marks and Spencer has published its financial results for the first half of 2024, showcasing a strong performance with an increase in both sales and profitability. The retailer’s group sales have reached £6.5 billion, marking a 5.8% rise compared to previous figures.…

Asda is trialling new self-service options at its Ashton-under-Lyne store, focusing on product returns and tobacco dispensing.The self-service returns system allows customers to receive refunds automatically by scanning receipts and depositing items.If automatic refunds aren’t possible, customers can seek staff assistance for manual processing, and exchanges can also be handled.A separate trial is addressing tobacco sales, aiming to reduce queuing times by utilising automated vending solutions.The initiative follows other retailers, like Sainsbury’s and M&S, who are enhancing their self-service technologies.Asda has embarked on a trial of a self-service returns system at its Ashton-under-Lyne store in Greater Manchester, which allows customers…

The Conran Shop has introduced a new trade concept aimed at UK design and interior professionals.Located at Sloane Square, the shop will offer consultations and support to industry experts.Exclusive previews, event invitations, and discounts are key features available to Trade programme members.This initiative aligns with the shop’s strategy to expand business-to-business operations.Tom Bettinson underscores the importance of this development for The Conran Shop’s growth.The Conran Shop has revealed an innovative trade concept, especially tailored for professionals within the realms of design and interiors across the United Kingdom. This initiative, housed at the prestigious Sloane Square flagship store, is designed to…

Boohoo has ushered in a new chapter with a refreshed logo and branding strategy aimed at aligning with modern aesthetics and values. The fashion retailer has adopted a bespoke logo and bold visual identity, enhancing its brand appeal. A new campaign, ‘People will talk,’ seeks to reshape public perception and revitalize Boohoo’s image.The timing coincides with potential strategic shifts in Boohoo Group’s direction, including a possible portfolio breakup.Mike Ashley’s pursuit of a CEO position adds another layer of intrigue to Boohoo’s evolving corporate narrative.Boohoo, a leading name in the fashion retail sector, has embarked on a significant rebranding effort, unveiling…

Vinted, the online marketplace, has successfully completed a secondary share sale, raising £282.96 million.This financial move, led by TPG, supports Vinted’s strategy to expand beyond second-hand clothing.The company’s valuation now stands at £4.16 billion, indicating strong market confidence.Investors include prominent funds such as Hedosophia and Baillie Gifford, reflecting diversified expertise.Vinted aims to venture into consumer electronics, books, and more, reinforcing its global second-hand market vision.Vinted, an established name in the second-hand clothing market, has made significant strides by closing a £282.96 million secondary share sale. This financial milestone was spearheaded by private equity firm TPG, reflecting robust backing for Vinted’s…

Gymshark is set to open a new pop-up hair salon and store called ‘Twists ‘n’ Sets’ in east London, marking a significant step in addressing hair care concerns in the fitness community.The temporary salon aims to bridge the gap between fitness and textured hair, celebrating Black History Month with this initiative.Located in Shoreditch, the salon will offer 1-2-1 hair appointments, express styling services, and a range of hair products and accessories.The initiative responds to research highlighting hair maintenance as a barrier for 45% of black women in maintaining a gym routine.Appointments have sold out quickly, indicating high interest and demand…

John Lewis has entered into a partnership with Made.com, owned by Next, heralding a significant new venture in furniture retail.The collaboration will debut with Made.com’s first London showroom in John Lewis’ flagship store on Oxford Street.Following the showroom launch, Made.com products will also be available on John Lewis’ website and more store concessions are planned.This move is part of John Lewis’ broader strategy to enhance its retail offerings following a £6.5 million upgrade of the Oxford Street site.John Lewis executive director Peter Ruis emphasises the investment in quality and service as key to customer satisfaction.John Lewis has engaged in a…

Holland & Barrett is set to significantly boost its presence in the UK by opening up to 50 new stores in 2025.This expansion follows a strategic investment that included 35 new openings and 280 refurbishments this year.The retailer aims to enhance accessibility through standalone stores and innovative retail formats.Partnerships with major retailers such as Tesco and Next will support this growth strategy.Holland & Barrett’s concessions in retail parks are a key part of its expansion plans.Holland & Barrett is making strides to expand its footprint across the UK by planning to open up to 50 new stores in the coming…

The Foschini Group (TFG) has acquired White Stuff, a significant move in its brand expansion strategy.TFG plans to retain White Stuff’s senior leadership, including CEO Jo Jenkins, and all current employees.White Stuff founders George Treves and Sean Thomas will exit the board post-acquisition.The acquisition, termed a milestone by TFG, is backed by a newly refinanced debt facility.TFG aims to enhance White Stuff’s brand presence and online growth, supporting its expansion strategy.The Foschini Group (TFG) expands its fashion portfolio by acquiring White Stuff, marking a strategic move to include lifestyle and menswear brands. The acquisition underscores TFG’s intent to diversify its…