British shoppers show signs of ‘more optimism in their outlook’ October 25, 2018 British shoppers are showing signs of cautious optimism in the run-up to Christmas, as low levels of unemployment and rising wages suggest a slight uptick in spending confidence. Just over a quarter of UK retail consumers think they will be better off in the next 12 months, marking an improvement in sentiment compared with last [...]
Magners maker C&C to produce more drinks in the UK after Brexit October 25, 2018 The maker of Bulmers and Magners cider is in late-stage talks to start producing European drinks at its UK plant after Brexit. Chief executive Stephen Glancey told Reuters that Brexit has presented opportunities for the Irish business. “You've got other manufacturers coming to us and saying ‘can you manufacture for us in the UK’? … [...]
SCS to stop selling through House of Fraser after orders slump October 25, 2018 Furniture company ScS will close all of its concessions at embattled department store House of Fraser by the end of January after it was taken over by Sports Direct founder Mike Ashley. The company said its orders through House of Fraser had more than halved in the twelve weeks ending 20 October. Ashley bought the [...]
Debenhams shares rise despite £500m loss: Industry reaction October 25, 2018 Debenhams’ share price rose 15 per cent this morning despite the high street department store posting a £500m loss, its worst in 240 years of trading. A £491.5m loss for its 2018 financial year was down from a £59m profit it recorded in 2017, while revenue fell 1.8 per cent to £2.9bn and like-for-like sales [...]
High street turmoil: Debenhams cancels dividend as it confirms £500m loss October 25, 2018 Debenhams scrapped its dividend this morning as it confirmed a loss of almost £500m amid plans to close up to 50 stores, after news of the troubled retailer’s desperate outlook broke late last night. The department store’s biggest loss in its 240-year history came as chief executive Sergio Bucher insisted the company remains a “profitable business”, [...]
Debenhams to reveal huge losses and job cuts in latest sign of retail bloodbath October 24, 2018 The scale of troubles facing beleaguered high street giant Debenhams unfolded this evening, with reports that the department store chain is set to reveal its biggest loss in its 240-year history tomorrow morning. Sky News reported today that Debenhams is set to post statutory annual losses nearing the £500m mark in its statement tomorrow, with plans to [...]
Sun shines on Chapel Down as Kent vineyards double harvest October 24, 2018 British winemaker Chapel Down said it has the weather to thank for a record-breaking harvest. The Kent-based winery has more than doubled its previous record take in 2014 as the right weather came in the “right order”. Read more: Winemakers running out of storage space in wake of 'record' harvest Chief executive Frazer Thompson said [...]
Trivago cuts advertising as profitability returns October 24, 2018 Hotel search engine Trivago returned to profitability in the third quarter as it cut its advertising spend. The company, which has invested heavily in marketing in the past, said the move follows a broader trend in the market. Read more: Premier Inn expands as owner Whitbread looks to life after Costa Net income was €10m [...]
Deliveroo to update app with allergen information in wake of Pret crisis October 24, 2018 Food delivery startup Deliveroo has today said it is revamping its app with a new menu system which will allow restaurants to upload allergen information for every dish. London favourites such as Tortilla, Mildred's and Chipotle have signed up for the app's trial roll out in December, which will feature 30 brands that serve almost 300 sites. [...]
Gourmet Burger Kitchen earmarks 17 restaurants for closure as it enters company voluntary agreement October 24, 2018 Famous Brands, the South Africa-based owner of Gourmet Burger Kitchen, has announced the restaurant chain will initiate a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) amid financial woes. The company said it has 17 restaurants earmarked for potential closure, affecting 250 jobs. The company would not comment on which locations may be closed. It will hold a meeting with creditors [...]