Author: Scott Dylan

The Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), the UK’s largest pension fund, has made a notable investment, purchasing 3,000 shared ownership homes from Blackstone’s Sage.This acquisition, valued at £405 million, marks a significant step in the housing market, underlining USS’s commitment to expanding its investment portfolio in affordable housing.USS’s acquisition of shared ownership homes illustrates a strategic expansion within the housing market. The purchase, involving properties from Sage, highlights USS’s effort to diversify its holdings while supporting affordable housing initiatives.The significant £405 million investment signals the fund’s intention to support homebuyers who may struggle to purchase properties outright.Shared ownership schemes play a…

Confidence in Elon Musk’s platform, X, is waning among advertisers.Recent data reveals only 14% plan to increase ad spend on X, while 77% favour TikTok.Advertisers are increasingly moving their marketing budgets towards TikTok as confidence in Elon Musk’s platform X dwindles. A notable 77% of marketers plan to boost their advertising expenditure on TikTok in 2024, demonstrating the platform’s growing attractiveness to businesses. This is contrasted starkly with only 14% of advertisers who aim to reduce their spending on X, highlighting a significant loss of trust within the advertising community.X has initiated legal proceedings against the Global Alliance for Responsible…

Primark is actively expanding its presence in the United States, having launched its first campaign in the region.The initiative is part of an effort to bolster brand awareness among American consumers.Primark aims to grow its footprint to 60 stores across the US by 2026, starting with a new opening in Orlando.Two promotional films headline the campaign, showcasing the unique Primark shopping experience.The campaign spans multiple media channels including digital, social, and radio platforms.Primark has initiated its inaugural campaign in the United States, aiming to increase brand recognition among American consumers. This new effort marks Primark’s strategic approach in expanding its…

Tesco is innovating with digital passports for their clothing range to enhance transparency.The initiative aligns with the EU’s new regulations on supply chain transparency starting soon.Customers will gain insights into garment materials and their origins within Tesco’s F&F fashion brand.The move follows the introduction of similar digital passports by other brands like Nobody’s Child.These changes aim to promote informed and conscious consumer choices.Tesco is integrating digital passports into its clothing line, a pioneering step in enhancing product transparency. This development is in response to the European Union’s impending regulations aimed at increasing supply chain transparency. With these digital passports, customers…

The BBC Sounds’ Audio Lab programme is once again spotlighting emerging talents in the audio industry. Four young producers have been selected to participate in this esteemed initiative.This programme aims to nurture creativity and diversity, providing these individuals with training and opportunities to voice under-represented perspectives and create innovative content.Championing Under-Represented VoicesThe BBC Sounds’ Audio Lab programme has once again taken strides in championing under-represented voices in the audio industry. This year, four promising young producers have been selected to benefit from this initiative. Mia Thornton, Jay Behrouzi-Sneade, Hugh Sheehan, and Meg Elliot won coveted spots, giving them the opportunity…

Ben Sherman has made a notable return to the UK high street with two new flagship stores in Brighton and London’s Soho.The Brighton store, located on Dukes Lane, spans 1,300 sq ft and celebrates the brand’s origins.The upcoming Soho store on Berwick Street will open its doors on 29 August, with a space of 677 sq ft.These openings signify Ben Sherman’s re-entry into the full-price market after previous closures in London due to a CVA.As the official supplier for Team GB, Ben Sherman continues to strengthen its brand presence alongside its new store expansions.Ben Sherman has made a significant step…

Go Outdoors is opening Europe’s biggest outdoor store in York.The store will replace the former John Lewis site at Vangarde Shopping Park.A wide range of 380 brands will be available, including several new additions.The opening includes unique features such as the first Adidas Terrex concession.The launch is expected to generate 42 new jobs, enhancing the local economy.Go Outdoors is poised to unveil the largest outdoor retail store in Europe at York’s Vangarde Shopping Park. Set to occupy the space previously held by John Lewis, the store encompasses an impressive 125,000 square feet. This strategic move represents a significant expansion for…

A significant partnership has been established between Newcastle’s biotech company, Kerato, and the University of Montreal, Canada. This collaboration aims to propel the development and commercialisation of lab-grown corneas, tapping into a multi-million dollar market.Kerato, a subsidiary of BSF and listed on the London Stock Exchange, is at the forefront of bio-engineered cornea innovation. They have crafted an advanced version for medical and research purposes, aspiring to move towards clinical trials and meet industrial demands. This partnership signifies a notable step towards addressing cornea implant needs globally.Unveiling the PartnershipKerato has strategically aligned with the University of Montreal to advance its…

Burger King UK’s revenue surged by 30% in 2023, marking a successful turnaround from previous losses. This growth is largely attributed to their strategic expansion and cost management efforts.The fast-food chain’s decision to open 18 new restaurants and refurbish existing ones has substantially bolstered their market presence and profitability.Strong Revenue GrowthBurger King UK has experienced a significant boost in revenue, achieving a 30% increase in 2023. This growth has been driven by strategic expansion through opening new restaurants and revitalising existing outlets. The brand’s focus on cost management and operational efficiency has further supported this upward trajectory, setting a positive…

Danish fashion brand Ganni has closed its UK head office to focus on global expansion.The closure took place in Islington, affecting 19 employees, as the brand shifts towards Paris and Copenhagen.10 out of the 19 employees will continue with the company in various capacities, including relocation.Ganni’s decision aligns with consolidating its European offices to enhance its global platform.The brand maintains its presence in the UK with several stores and renowned retail partners.In a strategic move to enhance its global platform, the Danish fashion brand Ganni opted to close its UK head office in Islington, London. This decision is part of…