Author: Scott Dylan

The British streetwear label ‘Represent’ is set to make a significant mark on the UK retail scene with its inaugural store in Manchester.This autumn, the brand will open a 5,419 sq ft store at Unit 2 New Cathedral Street, situated between Canada Goose and Paul Smith.Founded in 2011, Represent draws inspiration from retro Mancunian style, emphasising its deep roots in Greater Manchester.Having established a global presence with over 150 stockists, Represent aims to strengthen its UK footprint following its initial Los Angeles store.The new Manchester store signifies Represent’s ambition to expand and solidify its iconic status in the fashion industry.The…

Mark Simpson, Asda’s Chief Transformation Officer, has departed after 17 years amid organisational changes.The Asda technology team will now be under the leadership of the new Chief Digital Officer, Matt Kelleher.Kelleher is responsible for the completion of the Asda’s Future programme, focusing on cloud-based digital infrastructure.The transition away from Walmart’s legacy systems is expected to be completed by the end of this year.Asda acknowledges Simpson’s contributions and extends good wishes for his future endeavours.Mark Simpson, who served as Asda’s Chief Transformation Officer for nearly two decades, has officially exited the organisation. This move comes as part of an internal reshuffle…

Retail sales in June grew by 3.2% compared to the same month in 2023.This marks the strongest sales growth since August 2023, with a second successive positive month.Online sales showed a significant increase of 9.8%, overshadowing weaker in-store sales growth.The fashion sector struggled compared to lifestyle and homeware, with a decline in-store.Government initiatives to revitalise high streets are eagerly awaited by retailers.Retail sales in June experienced a 3.2% growth compared to the same period in 2023, according to BDO’s High Street Sales Tracker. This marks the strongest performance since August of the previous year, indicating a shift towards a more…

Safejawz, a Black Country-based business, has transformed the simple mouthguard into a symbol of safety and style. Founded by university friends, the company is now setting new trends globally.Starting with mere pop-up stalls and second-hand sporting items, Ewan Jones and George Dyer’s entrepreneurial effort transformed into Safejawz, a company redefining the sports mouthguard industry. The journey began at university with a dream of opening a sports shop. However, due to financial constraints, they opted for an online approach, eventually honing in on mouthguards and whistles, which exhibited promising sales potential.Identifying a void in a stagnant market, Jones and Dyer set…

Harman Technology is set to revolutionise the film industry with a groundbreaking investment in new equipment.Located in Cheshire, the firm is poised to meet the rising demand for classic camera technology while ensuring the future of analogue film. As a leader in the industry, Harman is taking decisive steps to enhance innovation and production through this multi-million-pound investment.Significant Investment in Retro TechnologyBritain’s sole manufacturer of 35mm camera film, Harman Technology, is making a substantial multi-million-pound investment in cutting-edge equipment. This strategic move aims to safeguard the future of analogue film as the demand for nostalgic camera technology intensifies. Harman Technology…

The British luxury brand Mulberry has appointed Andrea Baldo as its new chief executive.Baldo brings extensive experience from leading international fashion brands.He is known for prioritising inclusivity and sustainability in business practices.Analysts view his appointment as a strategic move for Mulberry’s future growth.Mulberry is expected to leverage Baldo’s expertise in brand positioning and expansion.Andrea Baldo has been named the new chief executive of British luxury brand Mulberry, effective from 1 September 2024. Baldo’s extensive career in the fashion industry includes experience at Maison Martin Margiela, Diesel, Marni, and Coccinelle, and most recently as CEO of Danish womenswear label Ganni.Under Baldo’s…

The construction of Ideal Heating’s £19.2 million research and development centre in Hull is well under way. This facility is poised to innovate and develop low carbon heating technologies.Led by Yorkshire’s Henry Boot Construction, the centre will play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable heating solutions. The project exemplifies significant regional investment in green technology and innovation.Overview of the ProjectIdeal Heating has initiated the construction of a state-of-the-art research and development centre in Hull, valued at £19.2 million. The centre aims to advance low-carbon technology, including the development of heat pumps. The Yorkshire-based firm, Henry Boot Construction, is leading the…

Sir John Timpson aims to focus more on the business as his son assumes a ministerial position.James Timpson is stepping down from his director role to serve as prisons minister.Timpson Group’s leadership will rely on Paresh Majithia as acting group managing director.About 10% of Timpson’s workforce comprises individuals from the prison system.James Timpson founded The Timpson Foundation and led initiatives to reduce re-offending.Sir John Timpson, Chairman of Timpson Group, has announced his intention to dedicate more time to the business following his son, James Timpson’s appointment as minister for prisons, parole, and probation. James Timpson will temporarily step down from…

British luxury brand Mulberry has welcomed Andrea Baldo as its new CEO, succeeding Thierry Andretta.Andrea Baldo brings a wealth of experience, having led Ganni and expanded its global retail presence.Under Baldo’s leadership, Ganni achieved B Corp certification, highlighting a focus on sustainability.Baldo has extensive experience in the fashion industry with prior leadership roles at Coccinelle and Marni Group.Andrea Baldo assumes his new role at Mulberry on 1 September 2024, marking a strategic transition for the brand.British luxury brand Mulberry has appointed Andrea Baldo as its new chief executive officer, replacing Thierry Andretta. Andrea Baldo’s extensive experience in the fashion industry,…

The recent financial results for Peacocks, Bonmarché, and Edinburgh Woollen Mill (EWM) indicate a return to profitability after being purchased out of administration in 2021.Peacocks reported a significant turnover increase to £238m with an operating profit of £14.7m for the year ending 25 February 2023.Edinburgh Woollen Mill and Bonmarché achieved combined sales of £195m and an operating profit of £8.1m during the same period.Improvements were driven by updated store estates, investment in key product categories, and substantial ecommerce growth.The businesses are planning an expansion with 100 new UK stores expected in the next 18 months.Peacocks has demonstrated a remarkable turnaround…