Simon Burke
Simon Burke is chairman of Hobbycraft
OpinionAre retailers offering customers what they want them to want?
As retailers strive to implement changes to meet customer needs, the benefits still swing too often in favour of the business.
OpinionFrom Sunday hours to business rates, retailers must make their voices heard
What’s the point of having leaders if they don’t lead? Our Government has not solved the problems facing the industry so bosses must speak up.
OpinionComment: Retailer know-how can benefit any business
Retailers should be shouting about their customer service skills, which are in demand across multiple sectors of business.
OpinionComment: Embracing change is central to retail success
In light of management changes across the sector, it should be noted that change is an unpredictable but inherent part of the retail world.
OpinionComment: Tesco must find its heart to regain core customers
Tesco’s continued difficulties are the result of hubris and the inability to engender affection among core UK consumers.
OpinionComment: Retailers need a radical approach to compete with etailers
As UK trading standards are unenforced for many websites, traditional retailers must innovate to compete with etailers’ advantages.
OpinionComment: Co-op’s ethical heritage will resonate with today’s shoppers
‘You need your head examined.’
OpinionComment: IPOs reflect a new generation of innovative retailers
Interest in retail stocks shows the industry is home to innovation.
OpinionComment: Skills needed for retailing would be valued in other sectors
I was telling a colleague the other day about some work I was thinking of doing for a non-retail business. “Sounds really interesting,” was the reaction. “We retailers only ever move in our own little world.”
OpinionComment: Retailers can't have secrets in the age of transparency
I’m glad to say that I have never been in charge of a business on the receiving end of a major media attack.
OpinionComment: Retailers need to be early adopters in new technology
Most people regard retail as a fast-moving, innovative and cutting-edge industry, and in many ways they are right.
OpinionComment: Inflation is vital to help keep business in the black
‘Greed is good!’ Even those of you who have never seen the film Wall Street have probably heard of Gordon Gekko and his iconic speech.
OpinionComment: The real meaning of multichannel
However you define it, stores and online are what really matters.
OpinionComment: The Olympics are a time to be positive
People love to moan, about the Olympics or retail, but the right attitude is key.
OpinionWhen a drip becomes a flood
Retailers must embrace change early rather than let it engulf them, says Simon Burke.
OpinionRetail rent regime still outdated
Simon Burke is an experienced senior retailer. He is currently chairman of HobbyCraft and Eagle Eye Solutions.
OpinionComment: Are recessions as much about psychology as economics?
Show faith in the worth of your offer and it’ll rub off on consumers, says Simon Burke
OpinionHolding the power over retailers
Credit insurers are exploiting their dominant market position, says Simon Burke
OpinionOpportunity awaits in Ireland
Ireland might be struggling but retailers can capitalise if they time it right, says Simon Burke
OpinionTime for independents day
With a little help, independents could reinvigorate our dull town centres, says Simon Burke