Author: Scott Dylan

Upfield’s transformation of Flora Buttery into a fully vegan product has significantly boosted its UK sales, illustrating the commercial potential of aligning with consumer trends.This strategic change has not only captured the attention of a growing vegan consumer base but also propelled the company to record financial achievements in the past year.Strategic Shift to VeganismUpfield’s bold decision to make Flora Buttery entirely vegan marked a distinctive shift in its strategy, one that has evidently proven successful. The brand, which has been under Upfield’s ownership since 2018, has experienced substantial growth in the UK market. This strategic alignment with evolving consumer…

HayMan Media is redefining podcast production in Wales and the south west of England.Founded by industry veterans Rob Norman and Darryl Corner, the company provides bespoke and high-end podcast services from its Newport studios.HayMan Media has emerged as a beacon of innovation in the podcasting sector, primarily focusing on the Welsh and south west of England markets. Founded by Rob Norman and Darryl Corner, the company offers bespoke podcast solutions from its newly established studios in Newport. Leveraging its founders’ extensive experience in still photography, video, and audio production, HayMan Media aims to meet the growing demand for quality storytelling…

Peter Hawkings has stepped down as the creative director at Tom Ford after 14 months in the role.Hawkings was appointed by Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) following Tom Ford’s decision to step back from the brand.His departure has been confirmed by ELC, though a successor has not yet been named.Guillaume Jesel, president and CEO of Tom Ford, thanked Hawkings for his exceptional contributions to the company.Tom Ford had expressed confidence in Hawkings’ ability to maintain high-quality fashion products when he was appointed.Peter Hawkings, who was appointed as the creative director at Tom Ford just over 14 months ago, has exited from…

Matalan, the value clothing and home retailer, expands its third-party brand portfolio with over 20 new additions.Following previous brand introductions in December 2023 and April, the new lines include popular names like French Connection, AX Paris, and Totes.The retailer’s strategy focuses on becoming a ‘one-stop-shop’ by offering a diverse range of fashionable and relevant brands.The addition includes categories across womenswear, menswear, homeware, and nursery products.Ali Jones, Matalan’s chief customer, emphasises the positive reception and strategic importance of new brand integrations.Matalan, a well-known value clothing and home retailer, is set to enhance its market offering by expanding its third-party brand portfolio.…

British heritage brand Barbour is opening its first standalone store in Leeds this summer.The new store will be located in a Grade II listed building on King Edward Street.Barbour’s Leeds location will offer men’s and women’s heritage collections, including classic waxed jackets.Design elements will blend industrial aesthetics with Barbour’s craftsmanship tradition.The opening signifies Victoria Leeds’ growth as a hub for prestigious brands.British heritage and lifestyle brand Barbour is preparing to open a new standalone store in Leeds’ Victoria Quarter later this summer. This store will be the brand’s first outside of London, marking a significant expansion for Barbour. Situated at…

Scolmore Group has significantly enhanced its operational capacity by acquiring a new warehouse in Mercia Park. This move aims to bolster its logistics capabilities.Scolmore Group’s Strategic ExpansionThe Scolmore Group has strategically expanded its presence in the West Midlands by securing a 51,000 square foot unit at Mercia Park, located conveniently near Junction 11 of the M42, north of Tamworth. This move underscores the company’s commitment to growth. Founded in 1989 in Tamworth, Scolmore Group is a reputable name in the manufacture of electrical accessories, lighting, home automation, security, and cable products. The company employs over 350 individuals, emphasising its substantial…

B&B Hotels has recently acquired the Penta Hotel in Birmingham, signalling its ambitious expansion plans in the United Kingdom.This acquisition marks a strategic move to refurbish and rebrand the property, enhancing its appeal in the competitive hospitality market.Strategic Acquisition DetailsThe decision by B&B Hotels to acquire the Penta Hotel in Birmingham forms part of the brand’s larger strategy to strengthen its foothold in the UK hospitality industry. Located in the bustling city centre, the hotel provides a prime location for business and leisure travellers alike. This move reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in key market areas.Penta Hotel…

Wireless Infrastructure Group’s expansion in Solihull marks a pivotal step in its growth trajectory. The company’s decision to triple its office space reflects its ambition and commitment to advancing its operations and workforce.Strategic Expansion of Office SpaceAn IT services firm has strategically expanded its office space in Solihull, a significant move reflecting its growth and ambition in the industry. By securing a 6,000 sq ft office on a ten-year lease in the Rhodium building at Blythe Valley Park, Wireless Infrastructure Group underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and capabilities. With this expansion, Wireless Infrastructure Group has tripled the size…

Wintech, a prominent engineering firm based in Wolverhampton, has announced its strategic acquisition of SDP Consulting Engineers. This move marks a significant step in enhancing Wintech’s range of services, aligning with their vision to offer a comprehensive package of engineering solutions across the UK.Wintech, specialised in façade engineering, has expanded its operational capacity through the acquisition of SDP Consulting Engineers. By acquiring this St Albans-based firm, which excels in structural, civil engineering, and surveying, Wintech aims to broaden its service offering. This strategic buyout supports Wintech’s ambition to serve as a single point of responsibility for diverse engineering services, including…

In the challenging economic environment of the UK, the South West is seeing a surge in financial distress. Companies across various sectors are grappling with severe economic pressures.A significant rise in financial distress among South West businesses indicates broader economic challenges. Key industries like construction and hospitality are notably affected, illuminating the region’s vulnerability.Rising Financial Distress Across SectorsA recent report by Begbies Traynor highlights the financial challenges faced by over 42,000 companies in the South West, marking a 7.3% quarterly increase and a significant 40.1% annual rise in financial distress. This surge in distress signals a broader economic pressure impacting…