MBS Intelligence

Category: Retail

The revamp of Tottenham Court Road is set to revitalise its place in the retail space. Previously known largely for furniture and electronics stores, the...
Store formatting strategies require careful consideration for companies seeking to expand. Particularly for brands like Fortnum & Mason, which are synonymous with famous flagships. How...
Some say that culture is the ultimate measure of business success, but it can be difficult to keep intact as businesses expand and develop. ‘Culture’...
Supermarkets are struggling more than ever to keep up with discounters Aldi and Lidl. It is pertinent to consider whether attempting to compete on price...
January always brings in a fascinating series of trading reports from the Christmas period. The patterns, from Debenhams’ slips to House Of Fraser and John...

Latest News

Amazon in advanced talks to acquire AI startup Decart for $7bn, following recent $300m funding round. Amazon is reportedly negotiating a $7bn acquisition of Decart, an AI firm specialising in real-time video and robotics. Decart was valued at $4bn in May and recently raised $300m, with Nvidia among new investors.

Shein’s UK sales rise as local growth contrasts with global slowdown. Sales rose 26% to £2.58bn for 2025 whilst operating profit grew 28% to £39.1m. Globally, Shein’s Q2 net profit fell 66% as US and European sales declined, despite 1% revenue growth.

Poundland in advanced talks with Martin Property Group over potential acquisition. Poundland, the UK value retailer, is reportedly in discussions with Martin Property Group for a solvent takeover after being put up for sale by Gordon Brothers. Martin Property Group recently acquired NCP, highlighting its interest in retail assets.

Schuh appoints Chief Financial Officer to drive financial strategy and growth. Nick Scott has been named as Chief Financial Officer at the shoe retailer. He brings over 20 years of sector experience, including leading Footasylum’s transformation and digital expansion. He will focus on financial operations and growth.

Sanctuary Care reports revenue and profit growth as occupancy rises. The leading UK care provider saw revenue and profit increase as occupancy reached 91%. The group credits targeted marketing and stronger local authority ties for a more stable winter trading period.

Kering prepares new creative direction for Saint Laurent after Anthony Vaccarello’s departure. Anthony has stepped down from his role as Creative Director after a decade, with a successor to be announced soon. The move follows leadership changes at Gucci, Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta as Kering reshapes its luxury portfolio.

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