Author: Scott Dylan

Thanksgiving Day offers time with family, but it can alter daily routines. Understanding what services remain open helps plan the day effectively.From retail to public services, Thanksgiving often results in widespread closures. Learning which businesses pause operations allows for smoother holiday planning.Retail Store ClosuresFor the fifth year running, major retailers like Target are opting to remain closed on Thanksgiving Day. Target’s decision is rooted in feedback from employees who valued the time spent with their families, as emphasized by CEO Brian Cornell. Walmart and Best Buy have also decided to keep their doors shut, continuing the trend that began in…

The recent actions of Elon Musk in publicly naming government employees have sparked widespread concern. These revelations are causing federal workers to question their future amidst fears of personal targeting and professional repercussions.With Musk’s posts reaching millions, the ripple effect on the federal workforce is far-reaching. Employees are anxious about the implications of being thrust into the public eye, raising questions about privacy and safety.Musk’s Social Media RevelationsIn recent developments, Elon Musk has taken to social media to expose the identities of several government employees. This move has ignited concerns among federal workers who fear for their safety and job…

Pets at Home is under scrutiny as potential cost-saving measures are considered.CEO Lyssa McGowan discusses the challenges of upcoming tax rises.The company is facing an £18m increase in National Insurance and wage costs.Job cuts and price adjustments have not been ruled out as potential solutions.Other retailers, like HMV, show similar concerns over economic pressures.Pets at Home, a significant player in the pet industry, is currently assessing its operational strategies in light of impending financial challenges. The company’s CEO, Lyssa McGowan, has indicated that while efforts will be made to mitigate costs, it is essential to evaluate the complete cost structure…

As inflation eases, grocery shopping habits are evolving, with notable shifts towards premium items.Supermarket leaders anticipate a positive Christmas period, attributing consumer confidence to reduced inflation.Consumers are increasingly opting for premium own-brand products, marking a departure from previous budget constraints.Upmarket retailers are experiencing growth, while value-focused chains maintain strong market positions.Retailers adapt to changing consumer preferences, balancing premium and value offerings in response to market trends.In recent months, as inflationary pressures have subsided, consumer behaviour in grocery shopping has exhibited significant changes. Supermarket leaders are optimistic about the upcoming Christmas season, expecting increased spending due to the easing of inflation.…

Secret Sales, an off-price fashion marketplace, has acquired H&M’s Afound.Afound was launched in 2018 offering both external and H&M’s own brands.The acquisition aligns with Secret Sales’ expansion strategy in Europe.Despite its acquisition, Afound will operate as a standalone platform.Key leaders express optimism about the future potential of this merger.Secret Sales, a prominent player in the off-price fashion sector, has taken a significant step by acquiring Afound, a digital outlet previously owned by H&M Group. This move is part of Secret Sales’ broader strategy to enhance its presence across Europe.Launched in 2018, Afound was originally a platform hosting both external brands…

In recent times, passengers have noticed increasingly crowded flights and rising costs. This trend is more than just coincidence—it results from strategic decisions by airlines. During peak travel periods, such as this holiday season, these changes are even more apparent. As demand surges, airlines have not adjusted capacity enough to maintain prices, influencing ticket costs significantly.With approximately 31 million passengers expected to travel this week, airlines are filling more seats than ever. However, the growth in flight availability has lagged behind the rising passenger demand, driving up prices. Historically packed flights now see record occupancy rates, impacting customer costs. Airlines…

In November, shop price deflation was recorded at 0.6%, a slight decrease from 0.8% in the previous month.The BRC-NielsenIQ Shop Price Index indicated a small shift above the three-month average rate of -0.7%.Non-Food prices continued in deflation at -1.8% for November, representing a marginal increase from -2.1% in October.Food inflation showed a minimal decrease, going down to 1.8% from October’s 1.9%.Potential future cost increases may result from upcoming changes in Employers’ National Insurance Contributions and other factors.The latest data documents a minor alteration in shop price deflation, which stood at 0.6% in November, a drop from the previous month’s 0.8%…

Monzo appoints Tom Oldham, a former Nubank executive, as the new group CFO.Tom Oldham assumes the role following the departure of James Davies to another company.Monzo plans to expand internationally, with a focus on markets in Europe and the US.Mark Newbery is named as the UK CFO, highlighting Monzo’s strategic growth within the UK.Monzo’s achievements include profitability, new ventures, and a growing customer base.Monzo has appointed Tom Oldham, a former executive from Brazilian fintech Nubank, as its new group CFO following the departure of James Davies, now CFO of energy supplier OVO. Oldham, who recently worked as chief investment officer…

The recent relaunch of Ted Baker’s website in the UK and US marks a strategic move by Authentic Brands Group.United Legwear & Apparel Co plans to strengthen the Ted Baker brand to capture consumer interest.The focus is on enhancing online platforms to improve user experience and brand engagement.Authentic Brands Group is committed to adapting to market trends and consumer preferences.Efforts are being made to boost Ted Baker’s visibility in the competitive fashion market.The relaunch of Ted Baker’s website in both the UK and the US signifies a calculated effort by Authentic Brands Group to revitalise the brand. This move is…

The Indonesian government has declined an investment proposal from Apple amounting to $100 million. This decision comes as a result of Apple not complying with local production requirements. Indonesia requires that a significant portion of products sold in the country be made with local parts, a condition Apple has not met with the iPhone 16.Apple’s failure to establish manufacturing facilities in Indonesia is at the core of this rejection. The government’s strict regulations aim to encourage tech giants to contribute to the local economy through substantial investments and local production efforts. Apple’s current investment does not align with these national…