Author: Scott Dylan

British heritage brand, Barbour, has launched a new store at Seven Dials, Covent Garden.The new store is located at 37 Neal Street in a Grade II-listed building.This site marks Barbour’s second retail venture in Covent Garden, following a previous store on Long Acre.The opening is part of Barbour’s ‘New Heritage’ retail concept, integrating industrial design with traditional craftsmanship.Barbour plans further expansions, with a new store opening soon in Leeds.Barbour, the esteemed British heritage brand, has unveiled a new retail location at the prominent Seven Dials area within Covent Garden. The store is situated at 37 Neal Street, housed in a…

Farfetch has taken strategic steps to refocus its business operations and enhance its core marketplace services.The luxury fashion platform has decided to close its white-label business unit, Farfetch Platform Solutions.This unit served high-profile clients like Reebok and Off-White, offering retail technology solutions.The decision aligns with Farfetch’s restructuring efforts post-acquisition by the Korean conglomerate Coupang.The move is part of broader cost-saving measures, including significant workforce reductions earlier this year.Farfetch has strategically chosen to close its white-label business unit, known as Farfetch Platform Solutions. This decision aligns with the company’s aim to prioritise its core luxury fashion marketplace operations. By discontinuing this…

Ian McFadzen, after a notable seven-year tenure, is stepping down as the chief executive of Plymouth Science Park. His leadership has significantly contributed to the park’s stature as a prominent innovation hub in the region.Taking on a new role at the Ocean Conservation Trust, McFadzen leaves behind a legacy of collaboration and forward-thinking initiatives at the science park.Ian McFadzen’s Tenure at Plymouth Science ParkIan McFadzen’s tenure as chief executive of Plymouth Science Park marks an era of substantial progress for the institution. During his seven-year leadership, the science park strengthened its reputation as a hub for innovation, supporting over 90…

JD Sports delivered a strong performance in the second quarter of 2024, surpassing analyst predictions. The company’s strategic focus and operational excellence led to a significant share price rise.Impressive Financial PerformanceJD Sports has demonstrated a robust financial performance in the second quarter of 2024. The company surpassed analysts’ forecasts, leading to a share price increase of more than six per cent in early trading. Like-for-like sales at the FTSE 100 firm rose by 2.4 per cent over the 13 weeks to 3 August 2024, contributing to a 0.7 per cent overall climb in the first half.Organic sales witnessed an increase…

British outsourcing giant Serco has clinched a significant contract to upgrade the electrical systems of the US Space Force’s Pituffik Space Base in Greenland.The $320 million contract, projected to span over four years, focuses on bolstering the base’s power infrastructure to enhance its operational reliability for critical missions.Serco’s latest venture involves a comprehensive overhaul of the auxiliary power system at Pituffik Space Base, formerly known as Thule Air Base. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the base’s capacity to manage operations related to missile warning, missile defence, and space surveillance. With an esteemed reputation in handling US government contracts, Serco…

Recent data reveals a promising outlook for the UK economy. Analysts anticipate sustained growth as businesses report higher confidence.The S&P Global purchasing managers’ index (PMI) climbed to 53.4, exceeding forecasts. This increase suggests accelerated economic activity.The latest survey results highlight growing optimism among UK businesses. The PMI not only exceeded expectations but marked the tenth consecutive month above the neutral 50-point threshold. This is a significant indicator of economic expansion. Business sentiments have improved, buoyed by robust domestic demand and easing inflationary burdens.Service providers note a ‘strong upturn’ in orders, driving employment prospects further. This highlights a surge in domestic…

Wolverhampton is set to witness a transformative development led by Wavensmere Homes.Plans for a £150 million canalside regeneration scheme have been submitted, promising a blend of residential and commercial spaces.The proposed Canalside South scheme in Wolverhampton aims to rejuvenate a 17.5-acre former industrial site. With a focus on modern living, the development will include 378 townhouses, 145 apartments, and ten co-living units.Additionally, the project will feature seven acres of green space, contributing significantly to urban beautification. The scheme also seeks to repurpose disused railway arches, offering 14,400 sq ft of commercial space.Strategically situated next to the Wyrley and Essington Canal,…

Allison Homes South West has taken a significant step forward in its regional expansion by acquiring land in North Devon for a housing project.The development will feature 150 homes, including a substantial number of affordable units to cater to diverse housing needs.Land Acquisition and Development PlansAllison Homes South West has successfully secured a plot in North Devon, signalling an advancement in their strategic expansion within the region. This newly acquired site in Landkey is set to accommodate the construction of 150 homes. This development is a significant stride towards fulfilling the housing needs within the community. It will include a…

JD Sports Fashion CEO Régis Schultz projects US market will constitute 45% of turnover by 2025.The UK market is mature, contributing 20% to turnover, while Europe accounts for 30%.Expansion plans include opening more stores in the US and potential ventures in South America.Latest trading update shows North America leads growth with a 5.7% increase, Europe follows with 3.0%.Overall sales were strong with a like-for-like increase of 2.4% and an organic growth of 8.3%.JD Sports Fashion CEO, Régis Schultz, anticipates that by the end of 2025, the US market will account for 45% of the company’s turnover. This marks a significant…

Sewtec Automation, renowned for its advanced manufacturing systems, has been acquired by Automated Industrial Robotics Inc, part of Ares Management Corporation.This strategic acquisition aims to bolster Sewtec’s market position and enhance innovation within the automation sector, creating a robust platform for future growth.Acquisition OverviewYorkshire-based Sewtec Automation has been acquired by the US group Automated Industrial Robotics Inc (AIR). This acquisition is expected to fortify Sewtec’s position within the industry, underlining its commitment to innovation and quality automation solutions. The deal was facilitated by Leeds-based investor Endless LLP, which supported a management buyout in 2017.Sewtec Automation, known for its advanced automated…