Author: Sam Allcock

Plans to build 20 new homes in east Dorset have received approval, marking a significant step in local development.The project, located near Knighton House, Poole, includes a mix of affordable and market-rate homes, alongside improvements to infrastructure.The recently approved development encompasses a rural-style housing scheme consisting of 16 houses and four flats, with eight designated as affordable homes. Located next to Knighton House, this initiative by Ken Parke Planning Consultants on behalf of the landowner has received backing from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council. The planned development emphasizes both residential quality and community contributions.Additionally, developers have committed to enhancing…

Today marks the reopening of Scotch & Soda’s Carnaby Street store, re-emerging after a year-long closure due to the brand’s financial challenges and transition of ownership.Scotch & Soda, acquired by Bluestar Alliance in March 2023, has resumed operations at its iconic 590 sq ft Carnaby Street location.The store was among several UK locations closed following the brand’s bankruptcy and subsequent rescue.New York-based Bluestar Alliance now oversees the brand, aiming to revitalise its presence in the UK market.Victor Barbosa, CEO of Scotch & Soda South Africa, highlighted the renewed shopping experience offered to UK customers.The Amsterdam-based fashion label Scotch & Soda…

Hay Life, founded by ex-Barbour MD Ryan Llewellyn-Pace, is forging strategic connections in the retail world.The brand is launching with major retailers, including Next and John Lewis, marking its debut in the wholesale market.Hay Life is also collaborating with independent retailers Out With Style and Outdoor and Country.In alignment with sustainability goals, Hay Life partners with Sojo for product longevity and circularity.Ryan Llewellyn-Pace expresses gratitude for the support from major retail players in the industry.Hay Life, the unisex brand initiated by Ryan Llewellyn-Pace, who formerly held the position of managing director at Barbour for the UK and Ireland, is making…

Adidas is launching its ‘Pulse’ store concept in the UK, aiming to attract value-focused consumers.The first ‘Pulse’ store opens at Fort Kinnaird, Edinburgh, covering 11,000 sq ft on a nine-year lease.Glasgow Fort will soon feature an 8,600 sq ft ‘Pulse’ store, expanding the retail experience.’The Pulse’ concept includes modular displays and a blend of full-service and self-service options.The initiative reflects major brands enhancing physical store presence to boost customer engagement.Adidas has announced the arrival of its ‘Pulse’ store concept in the United Kingdom, targeting value-conscious consumers this summer. The company plans to open its first UK store of this kind…

Following the acquisition of THG’s luxury division by Frasers Group, significant changes are underway.Premium and luxury brands associated with Coggles and the Hut are affected by order cancellations.The deal between Frasers Group and THG involves multiple luxury online platforms.Certain brands express concerns over the future of Coggles and The Hut’s viability.Confirmed lack of comments from key players, THG and Frasers Group, raises uncertainty.The acquisition agreement between Frasers Group and THG has led to substantial operational changes impacting brands linked with Coggles and The Hut. These brands, known for their premium and luxury offerings, have started receiving notifications about the cancellation…

Drapers Inner Circle Summit, an invite-only event, takes place on 16 October.Fashion retail leaders to gather at Ham Yard Hotel, London, to exchange insights.The summit targets C-suite executives to discuss progressive leadership.Opportunities for networking and collaboration stand out as key event features.The summit highlights Drapers’ commitment to fostering industry leadership.Drapers Inner Circle Summit, scheduled for 16 October, is a highly anticipated invite-only gathering designed specifically for leaders within the fashion retail sector. This exclusive event will be held at the Ham Yard Hotel, located in central London, providing a centralised venue for discussions and networking.This summit offers an unparalleled opportunity…

John Lewis has unveiled a new circular collection focusing on sustainability.The collection includes 20 pieces spanning fashion and home products.Key materials used include 100% cashmere, organic cotton, and recycled polyester.Each product integrates QR codes revealing its sustainable design process.This initiative aligns with Wrap’s circular design toolkit for sustainability.John Lewis has made a significant step in sustainable fashion by launching a new circular collection, encompassing 20 pieces that span both fashion and home products. This collection underscores the company’s emphasis on creating longer-lasting and more sustainable items.The collection meticulously utilises materials such as 100% cashmere, organic cotton, and recycled polyester. Fashion…

Silas Adler, founder of Soulland, steps down after 22 years.Adler established Soulland in 2002 at the age of 17.The brand gained recognition for its blend of artisanship and streetwear.Jacob Kampp Berliner, the co-leader since 2006, becomes sole owner.Adler reflects on the journey and expresses gratitude as he steps into uncertainty.Silas Adler, the visionary founder and creative director of the Danish fashion brand Soulland, has announced his departure after dedicating over two decades to the company. Established in 2002 when he was just 17, Adler has been synonymous with the brand that skillfully merges artisanship with streetwear.Soulland, under Adler’s leadership, has…

Frasers Group is in advanced discussions to take over Coggles from The Hut Group (THG).The potential acquisition could be confirmed shortly, marking Frasers Group’s continuing expansion.Coggles, founded in 1974, transitioned to THG’s ownership in 2013 during an administrative buyout.In recent strategic shifts, THG has been divesting non-core assets to prioritise key business areas.Frasers Group’s recent acquisitions align with its strategy of leveraging intellectual property and luxury brand growth.Frasers Group is currently engaged in advanced dialogues regarding the acquisition of the online luxury platform Coggles from The Hut Group (THG). Reliable sources suggest that the agreement might be finalised within the…

In May, retail sales experienced a notable recovery, following a previous decline in April.The Office for National Statistics reported a 2.9% increase in sales volumes from April.Clothing and department stores were significant contributors to the sales surge.An additional bank holiday in May played a crucial role in boosting consumer spending.Despite the improvement, economic challenges such as inflation continue to affect consumer behaviour.In May, the retail industry witnessed a significant upturn as sales grew by 2.9%, a noteworthy improvement from the 1.8% decline experienced in April. According to figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the April dip was…