All articles by George MacDonald – Page 11
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Analysis
Explainer: Implications of Sainsbury’s surprise on-off Argos sale talks
In the space of a weekend, it was revealed that Sainsbury’s was considering selling its Argos general merchandise division to Chinese colossus JD.com, and then that talks were over. Retail Week examines the implications
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NewsBusiness rates rise brings closure risk for 400 stores
Supermarkets and department stores are among shops threatened with “a wave of closures” if businsess rates changes go ahead.
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AnalysisJohn Lewis chiefs look ahead to a very merry Christmas after painful first half
First-half profits slipped at the John Lewis Partnership but, as they gear up for Christmas, bosses are optimistic that retail improvements and focus on productivity will being success and shoppers will be willing to spend in the golden quarter
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NewsMarks & Spencer digital chief to stand down
Marks & Spencer chief digital and technology officer Rachel Higham is stepping down from her role, Retail Week can reveal.
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NewsFenwick launches first loyalty programme in its 140-year history
Department store group Fenwick has launched a new loyalty programme, offering customers rewards such as money-off points and exclusive benefits.
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Opinion‘New business secretary’s Body Shop background may be good news for retail’
As the next Budget looms, retailers need all the friends they can get in government, but last week’s reshuffle means they need to build new relationships, observes George MacDonald
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NewsMarks & Spencer switches wholesale partners in ‘strategic shift’
Marks & Spencer has changed its food wholesale partner, responsible for third-party branded products.
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NewsShein accused of reducing UK tax by moving income to Singapore
Fast fashion giant Shein has been accused of transferring the “vast bulk of income” to its parent Singaporean company in order to reduce its tax bill in the UK.
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NewsHMV owner and WHSmith buyer eye up Claire’s deal
The buyer of WHSmith’s high street arm, Modella Capital, and HMV tycoon Doug Putman are potential buyers of bust retailer Claire’s Accessories.
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News‘Level playing field’ business rates plan risks backfiring
Big retailers face paying far more in business rates than their pureplay counterparts as measures designed to ensure the latter shoulder more of the burden look likely to flop.
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GalleryIn pictures: Fortnum & Mason’s stunning recycled materials window display
Fortnum & Mason has revealed a dazzling set of autumn windows made from materials recycled directly from its landmark London Piccadilly store.
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Opinion‘Topshop tie-up is a sign that John Lewis has a new spring in its step’
John Lewis’ deal to become the high street partner of fashion comeback kid Topshop is a coup for the department store group and epitomises new energy and a renewed sense of direction, believes George MacDonald
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NewsJohn Lewis launches biggest-ever Christmas recruitment drive
The John Lewis Partnership aims to hire more seasonal staff this golden quarter than ever before.
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NewsH&M names new UK managing director
Fashion giant H&M has appointed a new boss of its UK and Ireland division.
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AnalysisJohn Lewis kicks off golden quarter with Never Knowingly Undersold marketing splash
As well as a tie-up with Topshop, John Lewis chiefs this week revealed their bets for the golden quarter and launched a Never Knowingly Undersold brand campaign to mark the anniversary of the price pledge
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NewsJohn Lewis to launch Topshop in-store and online
John Lewis and Topshop have struck a deal to sell the famous fashion brand’s product in stores and online.
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InterviewNew BRC chair Jo Whitfield: lessons, leadership, and retail representation
Welder’s daughter Jo Whitfield rose to hold top positions at retailers including Asda, the Co-op and Matalan. Newly appointed as the BRC’s first woman chair, she tells Retail Week what she hopes to bring to the role
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GalleryIn pictures: Topshop touches down in Liberty
Legendary fashion brand Topshop has opened in the famous department store Liberty, restoring a UK bricks-and-mortar presence after a four-year absence.
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NewsFat Face launches in Germany through Zalando tie-up
Fashion retailer Fat Face has made its debut in Germany using etailer Zalando’s platform and intends to enter more European markets the same way.
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Opinion'As Waitrose’s Bailey checks out, he leaves opportunity for his successor'
Waitrose boss James Bailey is leaving next month. He’s steered the grocer through turbulent times and now is the time and his replacement should seize the moment – including more shops – says George MacDonald


















