Author: Scott Dylan

Luxury brands are increasingly eyeing new locations in London, bolstered by significant investment growth.Oxford Street attracts nearly half a million daily visitors, maintaining its status as a premier shopping destination.London’s retail investment grew by 71% quarter on quarter, reaching £424 million in Q2 2024.On Bond Street, luxury brands are strategically positioning themselves, contributing to London’s retail investment surge.Brands on Oxford Street are upsizing significantly, reflecting a revival in physical store commitments.Luxury brands are increasingly seeking prime locations in London, capitalising on the notable rise in investment. Oxford Street continues to be a focal point for brands, welcoming about 500,000 visitors…

Tata Steel’s significant £100 million transition fund has seen its first allocation. This fund aims to support steelworkers affected by the closure of the blast furnace operation at Port Talbot alongside supply chain companies.This financial initiative, backed by a £20 million commitment from Tata Steel UK, is part of the broader efforts to aid those impacted by the cessation of primary steelmaking activities. It signifies the proactive measures being implemented to safeguard workers and businesses within the community.The transition fund, initiated by the previous UK Government and supported by Tata Steel, serves two main objectives. Firstly, it focuses on retraining…

Wood Wood undergoes management restructuring following acquisition by DK Company.The brand faced insolvency in 2023, resulting in store closures in London and Berlin.DK Company, new owners since April 2024, oversees the transition.Brian SS Jensen becomes creative director, focusing on brand’s heritage and innovation.Gitte Wetter, from Samsøe Samsøe, appointed head of design.Danish fashion and lifestyle brand Wood Wood has initiated significant management changes under its new ownership by DK Company. The brand, which had encountered financial difficulties leading to insolvency in 2023, was acquired in April 2024. This acquisition followed the closure of several stores in key locations such as London…

Global Banking School has made a substantial commitment to Birmingham by agreeing to a significant office lease at 1 Brindleyplace.The agreement for 69,000 square feet cements its position as a key player in the educational landscape of the city.Global Banking School’s Major Birmingham ExpansionIn a significant move within the Birmingham city centre, the Global Banking School has successfully secured a letting agreement for 69,000 square feet at 1 Brindleyplace. This accord marks the largest office lease on the canalside, mixed-use estate in the past decade, underscoring the school’s commitment to expanding its presence in the area.Forming part of the London-based…

With the shifting dynamics in the retail landscape, prominent Danish fashion brands are reassessing their presence in the UK market.Danish fashion labels like Ganni and Wood Wood are reducing their UK operations, citing oversaturation and high operating costs.Ganni has transitioned its focus towards Paris, closing its London office and identifying the city as a new strategic hub.Despite closures, select Scandinavian brands continue to thrive with independent UK retailers due to strategic selection of offerings.Challenges such as high UK operational costs and lack of VAT-free shopping deter some Scandinavian brands from maintaining a UK base.In recent years, the UK market has…

As the date of Taylor Swift’s much-anticipated concert at Wembley approached, an unexpected pattern emerged in the resale market. Ticket prices, which had initially soared to astronomical levels, began a steep decline, offering a unique opportunity for fans.This development in the ticket resale arena caught the attention of many, especially those keen on attending without breaking the bank. A fascinating insight into timing and consumer patience emerged, showing significant savings for those who chose to wait.Initial Price Surge and Subsequent DeclineEarly listings for Taylor Swift’s concert tickets saw prices inflated by as much as 10,500% above face value. A ticket…

British menswear brand Charles Tyrwhitt has inaugurated its eighth new retail outlet in 18 months, located in Cheltenham’s town centre.The new store occupies the former Superdry concept store at 102-104 Promenade, spanning 2,787 sq ft.This retail space integrates advanced omnichannel capabilities, including interactive touch screens for a seamless shopping experience.Cheltenham’s location enhances the brand’s presence, being its 44th store worldwide, with a strategic focus on boosting high street vitality.The brand aims to open six more stores by the year’s end, reinforcing its commitment to future expansion.On 14 August, Charles Tyrwhitt, a renowned British menswear brand, opened its latest store in…

Five organisations from the North East have been distinguished in the list of the UK’s top 100 apprenticeship employers. This recognition underscores their commitment to fostering skilled professionals.Newcastle’s Go-Ahead Group and Sunderland’s Hays Travel are joined by prominent public sector bodies in this accolade, reflecting a regional emphasis on robust training programmes.Prominent Apprenticeship Employers in the North EastThe latest government-backed rankings highlight five North East organisations recognised among the UK’s top apprenticeship employers. Newcastle-based Go-Ahead Group has achieved an impressive rank as the 7th best employer overall while maintaining a strong position as the third best private company. Also achieving…

The latest Drapers Talks podcast features insights from Boohoo Group’s digital director, Jonny Longden, on leveraging AI tools in retail.Longden discusses how retailers can capitalise on social media trends like the ‘mob wife’ craze to boost sales.The podcast highlights the significance of adapting to fast-moving trends by using emerging technologies.Key strategies for incorporating AI to improve product visibility and customer engagement are explored.Listeners are offered a perspective on staying competitive in the digital age through the appropriate use of AI tools.In a recent Drapers Talks podcast episode, Boohoo Group’s digital director, Jonny Longden, shared his insights on the crucial role…

Balfour Beatty, a prominent name in UK construction, has announced a rise in profits to £98 million for the first half of the year. Despite challenges posed by the political climate, the company remains optimistic about the future of infrastructure development in the UK.Balfour Beatty, a leader in the UK construction sector, has reported a commendable rise in profits, reaching £98 million in the first half of the year. This financial growth reflects a slight increase from the £97 million recorded in the previous period. The group’s revenue also experienced a growth of three per cent, culminating in £4.7 billion.The…