Christmas 2025 Top Toys Predicted

In a surprising shift for 2025, the biggest buzz in the toy world is moving away from complex, high-tech gadgets and returning to simple, tactile joy. According to leading retailers like Hamleys, the expected number one craze this Christmas is the charmingly low-tech Ty Bouncers which start at around £7. This forecast comes after months of rigorous trend analysis and panel testing by Hamleys' expert buyers and children's focus groups. These fluffy, bouncy spheres—from cartoon cats to movie characters—are touted as the perfect "sensory break from digital overload," offering uncomplicated, physical fun that appeals to all ages. Alongside this trend, novelty food-themed toys are also seeing a major revival, proving that sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that are silly, soft, and don't require a Wi-Fi connection. Get ready for a Christmas defined by bounce, fuzz, and pure, old-fashioned play!

BBQ - Why is it important for toy retails to understand the trends for Christmas 2025 so early?

Top Toys

John Lewis Building Flats

 

The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has received unanimous approval from Reading Borough Council for its £70 million plan to build 170 rental apartments in the town centre. This project, which will see the demolition of a former JLP warehouse on Mill Lane, marks a major step in the company's new strategy to diversify its revenue by entering the "build-to-rent" housing market as a landlord. The development will offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom energy-efficient flats, with 16% designated as affordable housing (though this is below the council's target). By regenerating an underused brownfield site and promising high-quality design, communal amenity spaces (like a gym and co-working area), and a long-term commitment to the community, JLP aims to leverage the trust associated with its retail brand to provide much-needed, high-standard rental accommodation.

 BBQ - Explain a reason why a large retail business might choose to diversify its operations by moving into a completely different market, such as property and housing.

John Lewis Homes

Tesla Shares Fall

Hopes for a significant boost to Tesla's stock price were dashed this week as the much-anticipated rollout of its "lower-cost" models failed to impress investors. Despite CEO Elon Musk's assurances of increased affordability and wider market appeal, the company's shares experienced a noticeable dip following the unveiling, leaving many analysts questioning the immediate future of the electric vehicle giant. While the new models are indeed priced lower than their premium counterparts, the term "lower-cost" seems to be a relative one, with the price point still remaining a significant hurdle for many mass-market consumers - the new Model 3 Standard starts at $36,990 and the Model Y Standard at $39,990. Furthermore, critics point to a perceived lack of groundbreaking innovation in these new vehicles, suggesting they don't offer enough to differentiate them from increasingly competitive rivals in the EV space, underscoring the challenge for Tesla in balancing high-growth expectations with mass-market accessibility and profitability.

BBQ - Explain how the disappointment with the new Tesla Model 3 and Model Y could negatively affect two other elements of the marketing mix (Promotion and Place) for Tesla.

Tesla Shares Fall

 

Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to honour the achievements of Black individuals across all sectors, and the world of business is no exception. From historical trailblazers like Madam C.J. Walker to modern UK innovators such as Sharmadean Reid and Jamal Edwards, Black entrepreneurs have consistently driven change through creativity, resilience, and a deep understanding of their communities. Their ventures have not only created economic opportunities but also challenged stereotypes and inspired future generations. Despite facing barriers such as limited access to funding and underrepresentation, Black business leaders continue to thrive by embracing digital platforms, building strong brands, and leading with purpose. Their stories offer valuable lessons in innovation, adaptability, and social impact—key themes for any aspiring entrepreneur or business student. Supporting and learning from Black-owned businesses is not just a celebration of heritage, but a step toward a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape. Check out the story of Sharmadean Reid by following the link below...

Sharmaden Reid

UK Bans BOGOF Junk Food

The UK government has banned “Buy One, Get One Free” deals on unhealthy food and drinks in shops and online, aiming to curb rising obesity rates. The new rules, effective from 1st October 2025, also stop free refills of sugary drinks in restaurants. Items like fizzy drinks, crisps, cakes, and certain pizzas are affected. Health experts say these promotions encourage overeating and poor dietary choices. The ban is part of a wider strategy, including restrictions on junk food advertising before 9pm, expected to help prevent thousands of cases of childhood obesity. While some retailers had already limited such deals, the law now ensures consistency across the UK. Retailers and food manufacturers may now need to rethink their promotional strategies. With multi-buy offers restricted, businesses could shift towards healthier product bundles, loyalty schemes, or price reductions on nutritious options. This change could also influence consumer behaviour, encouraging more mindful shopping and healthier eating habits.

BBQ - Explain one way this change could affect marketing strategies used by supermarkets.

BOGOF Ban

Jellycat Plush Profits Double

British soft toy maker Jellycat is set to reward its owners with a staggering £110 million dividend after its profits more than doubled in 2024. The company, famous for its quirky plush creations like smiling peanuts and sad-faced eggs, reported pre-tax profits of £139 million—up from £67 million the previous year—alongside a 66% surge in revenue to £333 million. Founded in London in 1999, Jellycat has grown from a niche brand into a global sensation, selling in over 80 countries and appearing in prestigious retailers like Harrods, Selfridges, and Colette in Paris. Its success is largely driven by viral popularity on social media and a surprising trend: adults buying toys for themselves. This shift in consumer behaviour has helped Jellycat tap into a broader market, blending nostalgia with modern design. The planned £110 million dividend marks a 75% increase from the previous year’s payout, reflecting the company’s confidence in its continued growth. As Jellycat races to meet global demand, it remains focused on quality, sustainability, and delighting customers of all ages.

BBQ - Analyse how changes in consumer behaviour and marketing strategies may have contributed to Jellycat’s financial success.

Jellycat

Sneaker Wars

 

Disney+ has just released the three-part docu-series, Sneaker Wars: Adidas v Puma, which plunges viewers into one of the most intense and enduring rivalries in business history. The documentary unpacks how the personal feud between two German brothers, Adolf ("Adi") and Rudolf ("Rudi") Dassler, led them to split their successful family shoe business and found separate, globally dominant sportswear companies: Adidas and Puma. Set in the backdrop of their divided hometown, the series reveals how their decades-long competition—from vying for exclusive athlete endorsements like Pelé to pioneering key product innovations—fuelled both incredible business growth and a fierce sporting culture that is still felt today, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in marketing, brand identity, and the relentless drive of competition.

BBQ - Analyse two ways in which the intense rivalry between Adidas and Puma (non-price competition) would have a direct, positive impact on a customer. Use business terminology in your explanation.

Sneaker Wars

Amazon Closes UK Supermarkets

 

Amazon is set to close all 19 of its Amazon Fresh grocery stores across the UK, marking a significant U-turn on its cashierless brick-and-mortar experiment. The stores, known for their 'Just Walk Out' technology, failed to gain enough traction to compete with established UK supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury's after launching in 2021. This decision is part of a strategic shift to refocus investment on the area where Amazon is strongest: online grocery delivery. The company plans to double down on its partnerships with retailers like Morrisons and Co-op to expand its online offering and will convert five of the closing Fresh sites into its more upscale Whole Foods Market stores, suggesting a pivot to the premium end of the physical grocery market. This move demonstrates that even a tech giant like Amazon must adapt its strategy when a new business venture fails to achieve the necessary sales volume and market share against powerful incumbent competitors.

BBQ - Explain a reason why Amazon's decision to convert some Amazon Fresh stores into Whole Foods Market stores?

Amazon Go Goes

Labubu Counterfit Crisis

The viral collectible Labubu dolls, created by artist Kasing Lung and popularised by Pop Mart, have become the target of mass counterfeiting, with fake versions accounting for a staggering 90% of all counterfeit toys seized at the UK border this year. Authorities have intercepted around 236,000 fake Labubu dolls, part of a haul valued at over £3.5 million. This seizure highlights the serious issue of intellectual property (IP) infringement and consumer safety, as three-quarters of the fake toys failed critical safety tests. These dangerous counterfeits often lack the required UKCA or CE safety markings, posing significant risks such as choking hazards from loose parts and exposure to banned toxic chemicals. Consumers are urged to buy only from reputable retailers, as the low price of a fake can come with devastating real harms.

BBQ - Explain two ways in which this widespread counterfeiting, which infringes on their intellectual property rights, is likely to negatively impact the marketing mix (4 Ps) of the genuine brand.

Labubu

The Golden Flake

High-street bakery giant Greggs has made a playful jump into the hospitality sector by opening its first-ever pub, The Golden Flake Tavern, located within the Fenwick department store in Newcastle. This limited-time pop-up, running until February, is the latest in a series of highly successful marketing ventures that aim to elevate the brand beyond its famous sausage rolls. The pub features a menu of Greggs-inspired pub classics, such as a Steak Bake Mixed Grill and a Sunday Carvery where a Greggs bake is the centrepiece. Additionally, the bar serves exclusive, novelty draught beers like the Pink Jammie Pale Ale, alongside Greggs-themed cocktails. This creative move is a shrewd public relations (PR) stunt designed to generate massive media buzz, refresh the brand's image, and offer a unique, premium experience to its loyal fanbase. It’s a clear example of experiential marketing—creating a memorable, shareable event that keeps the brand relevant and exciting.

BBQ - What are the risks of a public relations stunt?

The Golden Flake

Meta Smart Glasses

Facebook's parent company, Meta, has unveiled its latest generation of AI-powered smart glasses in collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley. The new lineup includes the Meta Ray-Ban Display, which features a discreet, full-color screen built into the lens, and an accompanying "Neural Band" wristband that allows users to control the glasses with subtle hand gestures. This innovation is part of Meta's long-term strategy to shift consumer habits away from smartphones and towards AI-driven wearable technology. By combining everyday eyewear with cutting-edge artificial intelligence, Meta is aiming to create a new category of consumer electronics that offers hands-free access to information, from real-time translations to video calls, directly within a person's field of vision.

Meta is launching its new smart glasses with a price point starting at around £299. Analyze the potential impact of this pricing strategy on the product's sales and target market.

Smart Glasses

Bodycare Closing Up

In a further sign of the challenges facing the UK high street, beauty retailer Bodycare has announced it will close an additional 30 stores, following an initial round of closures. This decision comes after the company fell into administration due to a combination of factors, including rising costs, a delayed online platform transition, and a decrease in consumer spending driven by the cost-of-living crisis. This move will result in the redundancy of 235 staff members, adding to the job losses already announced. While administrators are working to find a buyer for the remaining 85 stores, the closures highlight the ongoing pressures on traditional brick-and-mortar retail businesses that are struggling to adapt to changing consumer habits and a difficult economic environment. Bodycare was founded in Lancashire in 1970. Its store layouts are known for their bright lighting and window displays that often feature piles of toilet tissue or pyramids of washing up powder.

BBQ - What do you think are the main factors that have led to Bodycare's decision to close a significant number of its stores.

Bodycare

Heinz Beanz Ready Mealz

 

Heinz has re-entered the ready-meal market with an innovative new range of 90-second microwaveable pouches focused on beans and pulses. Responding to the growing demand for convenient, healthy, and plant-based options, the new line features three globally-inspired flavours: Chilli Black Beanz, Curry Chickpeaz, and Tomato Cannellini Beanz. These new meals are designed to be a quick, nutritious choice, providing a good source of protein and fibre while containing no artificial flavours. The pouches are available in Sainsbury's and Ocado (£2.50), offering a modern, flavour-packed solution for busy consumers.The new line is a strategic move, responding to a growing demand for quick, healthy, and convenient meal options. With more and more people looking to reduce their meat intake, boost protein and fibre, and explore global flavours, Heinz is right on trend.

BBQ - How will market research have helped Heinz decide upon this new strategy?

Heinz Beanz

John Lewis Losses Triple

The John Lewis Partnership, which includes the renowned department store chain and Waitrose supermarkets, has reported a significant deepening of its financial struggles, with half-year losses nearly tripling to £88 million. This considerable deficit, up from £30 million in the same period last year, was recorded despite a rise in overall sales, a performance that highlights the intense challenges the business is facing. The company attributed the poor result to a combination of exceptional costs, including £54 million spent on a major business restructuring programme which involved redundancies and reorganising its operations. Further compounding the financial pressure were new regulatory charges, such as a £29 million hit from the government's new plastic packaging tax and higher national insurance contributions. Despite these financial setbacks, the company remains optimistic, noting that its ongoing turnaround plan has led to increased sales and improved customer satisfaction. The Partnership maintains that its substantial investment in updating its stores and digital infrastructure is necessary to return to profitability by the end of the full financial year, a goal which would allow for the reinstatement of the cherished staff bonus.

BBQ - A core part of the John Lewis Partnership's business model is providing its employees with an annual bonus. Analyse why the company's decision to withhold this bonus due to financial losses could have a negative impact on its human resources.

John Lewis

Mitchum Deodorant Recall

A well-known deodorant firm has been forced to issue a public apology and halt sales of one of its new antiperspirant products following a significant number of customer complaints. The company, which is a major player in the cosmetics industry, faced a firestorm of negative feedback across social media platforms. Users reported severe and painful reactions, including "chemical burns," "itchy, burning armpits," and painful rashes after using the product. In response to the crisis, the firm's leadership posted a formal apology, acknowledging the consumer reports and stating that they were taking the matter with the utmost seriousness. The company has since initiated a full product recall, urging customers to stop using the deodorant immediately and promising a full refund to anyone affected. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the financial and reputational risks associated with product development and highlights the critical importance of rigorous quality control and a rapid, transparent response to consumer safety concerns.

BBQ - Analyse the potential long-term impacts that this product safety issue could have on the firm's brand reputation, customer loyalty, and future sales.

Mitchum

Greggs Rolls Into Homeware

Greggs, in a bold move to capitalize on its massive brand loyalty, has teamed up with interiors specialist Icon to launch its first-ever homeware collection. The "Greggs Icons" range, which was teased on social media before its official release, includes a fun and unique line of products designed to bring the bakery's most beloved items into people's homes. The highlight of the collection is a series of giant, plush cushions and bean bags shaped like the iconic sausage roll and steak bake. Additionally, the limited-edition line features a recliner gaming chair and a cushion designed to look like a classic Greggs paper bag. This product diversification strategy aims to connect with a younger, online-savvy audience, particularly Gen Z, by offering them a tangible and quirky way to express their love for the brand. The launch demonstrates how Greggs is innovating beyond its core food business to engage its customer base and extend its brand presence in a highly creative and memorable way.

BBQ - Greggs has launched a limited-edition homeware collection. Explain two possible reasons why this product diversification strategy might be successful for the company.

Greggs Homeware

Legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani dies

 

Legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani, who passed away at the age of 91, leaves behind a legacy not only of timeless fashion but also of remarkable entrepreneurial achievement. Armani began his career in fashion as a window dresser and sales assistant before launching his own brand in 1975 with business partner Sergio Galeotti. His entrepreneurial spirit was evident in his ability to identify market gaps—introducing relaxed tailoring for men and empowering professional women with elegant, functional suits. Armani maintained full control of his brand empire, which expanded into perfumes, hotels, restaurants, and home furnishings, generating billions in revenue. He was known for his hands-on leadership, even personally arranging boutique displays well into his 80s. Armani’s success was built on a clear vision, independence of thought, and a relentless work ethic, making him a powerful example of how creativity and business acumen can combine to build a global brand.

What entrepreneurial qualities did Giorgio Armani demonstrate throughout his career, and how did these contribute to the global success of his brand?

Giorgio Armani

Tesco Trials Avocado Scanner

 

Tesco has launched a trial of infrared avocado ripeness scanners in five UK stores, aiming to revolutionize how customers shop for fresh produce while tackling food waste. Developed by Dutch agritech firm OneThird, the scanners use light-based technology to assess the internal ripeness of avocados in seconds—eliminating the need for squeezing, which often damages the fruit. This innovation is part of Tesco’s broader sustainability strategy, which includes removing plastic labels and packaging from avocado products, saving over 20 million pieces of plastic annually. With avocado sales surging—15 million more sold this year compared to last—the scanner helps shoppers choose fruit suited to their needs, whether for immediate use or later consumption. By improving customer experience and reducing waste, Tesco demonstrates how technology can be leveraged to solve everyday retail challenges and support environmental goals.

BBQ - How can technological innovation like Tesco’s avocado ripeness scanner improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in retail?

Avocado Scanner

Lululemon Squeezed by Tariffs

   

Lululemon Athletica, the Canadian athleisure giant, is facing mounting pressure as a combination of U.S. tariffs and weakening domestic sales disrupt its growth trajectory. The recent removal of the "de minimis" exemption, which had allowed duty-free shipments under $800, is expected to cost the company around $240 million in gross margin this year. This change, coupled with escalating tariffs, has forced Lululemon to revise its full-year revenue forecast downward, triggering a 15% drop in its share price. CEO Calvin McDonald acknowledged that the brand had become "too predictable," with stale product cycles failing to excite consumers in a cooling U.S. market. While international markets like China continue to show strong growth, the company is now focused on refreshing its product lineup and adjusting its supply chain to mitigate rising costs. The situation highlights the vulnerability of global retailers to policy shifts and changing consumer behavior, even for well-established brands. Adidas warned that the tariffs will cost it €200m (£173m; $233m) and raised prices for American customers. Nearly half of the company's products are made in Asia.

BBQ - How might changes in international trade policy, such as tariffs and the removal of duty exemptions, affect a company’s pricing strategy and profitability? 

Lululemon Tariff

No Longer White Chocolate

 

If you look closely at certain packets of McVities Digestives and Nestlé KitKats in the UK, you might notice something rather surprising. They are no longer being described as ‘white chocolate’ biscuits.  Instead, you’ll find that it just says the word ‘white’ rather than ‘white chocolate’ on the front of the packs. The product descriptions have also been tweaked to say the biscuits have a ‘white coating’ or a ‘white chocolate flavour’. It can’t be helped though, as the sweet treats no longer contain the required level of cocoa butter needed to legally be described as chocolate. In order to be classified as white chocolate a product needs to contain a minimum of 20% cocoa butter. However, the amount in White KitKats (including the Chunky version) no longer meets this requirement. Interestingly, McVities has removed cocoa butter from its White Digestive recipe altogether. Instead, both brands now use a mixture of palm and shea fats to make their white coatings.  As such, Nestlé quietly removed the word ‘chocolate’ from the front of its White KitKat packets earlier in 2025, while McVities made a similar change to the White Digestive packaging recently. ‘Recently, due to a business continuity issue with our coating supplier, we have carefully crafted a new recipe for White Digestives. Sensory testing with consumers showed the new recipe delivers the same great taste and texture as the original they know and love.’

BBQ - Would this impact your decision to purchase these products?

Not White Chocolate

Ferrero in Talks to Takeover Kelloggs

 

Shares in the US maker of Kellogg's Corn Flakes have soared after reports that chocolate giant Ferrero is close to buying the firm for about $3bn (£2.2bn). A takeover deal for WK Kellogg, which makes the Froot Loops and Rice Krispies breakfast cereals for the North American market, could come as soon as this week, the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times reported. The Italian owner of the Ferrero Rocher, Kinder and TicTac brands has been expanding in recent years, buying Nestle's confectionery business and several other food firms. WK Kellogg's shares surged by more than 56% in extended trading in New York on Wednesday after the reports. The deal could be worth double the firm's $1.5bn stock market value when ordinary trading ended. It would see Ferrero taking a dominant position in the US breakfast cereal market. Founded in 1946, the Italian firm is one of the biggest players in the chocolate market, with more than 30 brands sold globally. WK Kellogg has been struggling financially in recent years and has more than $500m of debt. In 2023, the US breakfast cereals operation was split off from its former parent company's international and snacks business, which was renamed Kellanova.

BBQ - What issues might occur following the takeover?

Kelloggs Takeover

£13 Super Salad

 

Pret a Manger has unveiled a new range of 'premium' lunch offerings targeted at hybrid workers looking to treat themselves on office days - including a salmon salad that starts from £12.95.  The coffee shop chain, which has almost 500 stores across the UK, says its new range of salmon, chicken and butternut squash dishes have been concocted with its in-house nutritionist to meet growing demand for bigger, healthy lunches. Some of the dishes contain nearly 50 grams of protein and are, according to Pret, nearly 60 per cent bigger than its existing range of salads. Reaction to the new dishes has been mixed - with much opinion directed at the near-£13 price point and the ingredients, which include chargrilled chickpeas, quinoa and 'hand-massaged kale'. Existing salads retail for around £8. The premium dishes will be available at 250 of Pret's stores across the UK, including major train stations and airports. But the chain may have its work cut out convincing some diners that the 'super salads' are for them, judging by reaction on social media. A spokesperson added that the price point matched the time it took for workers to put them together, claiming they take longer to prepare than other salads and baguettes.Pret is not the only chain to look into the trend of people seeking bigger lunches. A poll of 2,000 adults conducted for McDonalds by OnePoll last month found that one in four Brits skip breakfast on a regular basis. Of those, 13 per cent wait to break their fast do so because they want a bigger lunch.

BBQ - Have Pret got their marketing mix right?

£13 Super Salad

Ribena's New Look

Suntory Beverage has backed Ribena with a relaunch that includes a £7m TV advert. The blackcurrant-based drink has revealed a new look in a bid to “drive more shoppers to rediscover their favourite childhood drink”. The new design aims to drive shelf stand out with more vibrant colouring, said Ribena. In consumer testing, the refreshed pack “improved purchasing, unaided recall, taste and overall appeal”, added the brand. Central to the new TV advert ‘No Taste Like Home’ is two films that follow a pair of siblings sharing a glass of Ribena. As they sit back, the unique taste of the drink triggers a powerful memory. Their living room transforms into a rainy British summer, where they relive a happy childhood moment splashing in puddles as their mum calls them in. Ribena has invested £7m across TV, VoD, YouTube and 60,000 points of disruption in store to bring the films to life. The activity will run nationwide until September.

BBQ - How will they judge if this money well spent for Ribena?

Watch - New Ribena Advert

Record Growth of Chinese Cars

One in 10 cars sold in the UK in June were made in China, according to the latest industry figures. New Chinese brands such as BYD, Jaecoo and Omoda are growing rapidly in the UK. There has been a particular surge over the past few months, at a time when most other G7 countries have levied significant extra tariffs against their imports. Around 18,944 cars made by Chinese-owned brands, including MG and Polestar, were sold in June, which is 10% of overall UK sales, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). That is up from 6% in the same month a year ago. Across the first half of this year, more than 8% - or 1 in 12 - cars sold were Chinese, up from 5% in 2023 and 2024. This was mainly but not exclusively electric vehicles. Chinese firms and their franchises have been buying up car showrooms. "Chinese manufacturers are producing cars which are better, cheaper and more innovative in every sector of the market," said John Neill, former SMMT President and ex-chief executive of Unipart.

BBQ - Will this soon lead to these brands looking to make their cars in the UK? Why?

Cars Made In China

Bank Note Redesign

Banknotes issued by the Bank of England are about to get their first major redesign in more than 50 years. Notable historical figures, such as Sir Winston Churchill on the current fiver, have featured on these banknotes since 1970 but could be on the way out. The public are being asked for their views on new themes, such as nature, innovation, or key events in history. It raises the possibility of British birds, bridges, or bangers and mash featuring on the next series of £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes. Banknotes issued in Scotland and Northern Ireland already carry images of landmarks and animals such as otters. Euro banknotes feature architectural styles. This public consultation relates to the Bank's next series, which will also continue to include an image of the monarch. People can submit their view via an online form on the Bank's website, or by post, by the end of July. The final decision on what exactly features on a banknote lies with the Bank's governor. More than 4.7 billion Bank of England notes are in circulation, collectively worth around £86bn. Cash use has fallen to 12% of transactions as payments technology evolves, but the Bank has said it is committed to providing cash for those who wish to use it.

BBQ - What would you like to see on the new bank notes?

Bank of England

River Island Retrenchment

River Island has named the 33 shops it plans to close in the UK as part of a plan that puts hundreds of jobs at risk. The clothing retailer said last week that more people shopping online and higher costs to run stores were behind its proposals to creditors. It also wants its landlords to cut rents at a further 71 stores which are at risk. The family-owned retailer currently has 230 shops and employs about 5,500 people, but has suffered heavy financial losses. Ben Lewis, chief executive of River Island, said last week that although River Island is "a much-loved" British retailer, more online shopping means it has "a large portfolio of stores that is no longer aligned to our customers' needs". He added that a "sharp rise in the cost of doing business over the last few years has only added to the financial burden". He said a turnaround plan was in place, but restructuring was also necessary. "We regret any job losses as a result of store closures, and we will try to keep these to a minimum," he added. River Island made a £33.2m loss in 2023 after sales fell 19%, according to its most recent set of accounts. The chain said it will consult employees over possible job losses and will redeploy staff where possible. No head office workers will be directly affected by the proposed closures, a source said. Creditors will start to vote on the plan on 4 August, and a court will decide whether to approve the plan on 7 August. River Island was founded in 1948 under the Lewis and Chelsea Girl brand before being renamed in the 1980s. There is intense competition in fashion retail, not only from the likes of Boohoo, but also from Chinese giants such as Shein and Temu. Retail sales and consumer confidence in general have been down as households cut back to try to deal with inflation, she said, which all adds up to a difficult situation for River Island and its employees.

BBQ - Can the high street continue to compete against e-commerce?

River Island

New Nissan Leaf to be Made in UK

 

Car manufacturer Nissan has unveiled details of its new Leaf electric vehicle, which is set to be built at its UK factory. The third-generation model will be built at its Sunderland plant by its 6,000-strong team, the Japanese carmaker said. The new Leaf will be able to travel up to 375 miles (604km) on a single charge and will be available for customers to order later this year, Nissan said. It will be powered by batteries from AESC UK, Nissan's battery partner, which is based next to the Wearside factory. The site already also builds the carmaker's Juke and Qashqai models. Alan Johnson, senior vice president of manufacturing and supply chain management at Nissan Motor Manufacturing, said: "It's with immense pride that we unveil the third generation of our pioneering electric Leaf, 12 years after we brought EV and battery manufacturing to the UK. "It's a testament to the skill of our world-class team that we can bring into mass production a vehicle with such advanced technology and aerodynamic design." James Taylor, managing director of Nissan GB, said: "Leaf is a pioneering electric vehicle that has encouraged thousands to make the switch to electric motoring - and best of all, it's built here in Britain." It is the first model to be launched under the company's blueprint for electric vehicle production, Nissan's EV36Zero project, which aims for sustainability.

BBQ - Why is it good news that the car will be built in the UK?

Nissan Leaf

Trump Phone to be made in USA

 

Experts have cast doubt on the Trump Organization's claim that its proposed smartphone can be entirely manufactured in the US. Questions have also been raised about the ethics of what is the latest in a series of attempts to cash in on President Donald Trump's name. The phone which will retail at $499 (£367.50) will also come alongside a mobile phone service with a monthly fee of $47.45. The figure is a reference to Trump serving as the country's 47th and 45th president. Trump has said he has put his business interests in a trust, which is managed by his children. The White House has maintained he acts in the interests of all Americans. The Trump family has not said which company would manufacture its phone in the United States. Technology experts have questioned what the Trump Organization's "built in the United States" claim about its handsets means and argued it is probably not currently possible to manufacture smartphones from scratch in the US.The decision comes as Trump tries to pressure Apple chief executive Tim Cook to manufacture iPhones sold to American buyers in the US. The deal is an extension of a business strategy that Trump embraced long before his presidency, striking deals to sell his name to hoteliers and golf course operators in exchange for fees and royalties. The idea of a Trump-related smartphone has received mixed reaction online with some people ready to buy it and others mocking the concept.

BBQ - Why is it not possible for the phone to be manufactured in the USA?

Trump Phone

CEO Pay Inequality

 

The chief executive of a FTSE 350 company is paid 52 times as much as a typical worker, according to the latest measure of inequality between bosses and their employees. Median pay for FTSE 350 chief executives was £2.5m last year, which works out at 52 times a median worker’s pay, according to a new report from the High Pay Centre campaign group. The widest gap was found at the cleaning, security and waste management group Mitie, whose chief executive, Phil Bentley, was paid £14.7m, 575 times more than a middle-earner in the 2023-24 financial year. Tesco ranked the second highest for the same period among FTSE 350 companies legally obliged to report the figure. With a package worth nearly £10m, the supermarket’s chief executive, Ken Murphy, was paid 431 times more than a typical Tesco worker that year. The most recent ratio, for the company’s 2024-25 financial year, was lower, at a multiple of 373 as Murphy’s pay fell to £9.2m. Luke Hildyard, the director of the High Pay Centre, said a maximum pay ratio between chief executives and workers could help ensure that all workers received “a fair reward for their contribution to business success”. The High Pay Centre suggested all companies should be required to publish their CEO-to-worker pay gaps in their annual reports, and include pay figures for outsourced workers in their calculations.

BBQ - Do you think this gap is too big? Should there be a limit?

CEO Pay

Pink Digestives

Pladis is introducing a new limited-edition flavour to its McVitie’s Digestives range: Raspberry & Cream Pink Digestives. The product features golden-baked Digestive biscuits topped with a raspberry and cream-flavoured coating. It forms part of McVitie’s ongoing centenary celebrations for its Chocolate Digestives brand. Benazir Barlet-Batada, marketing director for Pladis UK&I, said: “As we continue to celebrate 100 years of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives, we wanted to mark the next chapter in our history by reinventing the nation’s favourite". “We know consumers are currently enjoying nostalgic flavours across a wide range of food and drink products, and that nostalgia in food isn’t just about recreating the past, it’s about rediscovering it in a way that feels new and exciting. Meanwhile pink is also still trending as a popular colour across food and drink." “Our new Pink Digestives are fun, fresh and packed with fruity flavour, designed to delight loyal Digestives fans and foodies alike.” The new flavour will be available in Sainsbury’s from 16 June, with a broader rollout to other major retailers, convenience stores and wholesalers planned for July.

BBQ - Do you think this new flavour will be popular with customers? What flavour would you like to see?

Pink Digestives 

Poundland Sold for £1

Struggling budget chain Poundland has been sold for £1 and now faces a shake-up which could see up to 100 stores close. Its owner Polish firm Pepco confirmed it had sold the brand for a "nominal" sum to US investment firm Gordon Brothers. Poundland has 825 UK stores and around 16,000 staff and was struggling to compete with other discount stores, with sales down this January and February.It comes after Pepco warned that increased employer National Insurance contributions which kicked in in April would put added pressure on the chain. Pepco Group has owned Poundland since 2016, but the firm had to auction the brand off after sales slumped over the past year. Pepco said it was effectively offloading an unprofitable part of the business and Poundland remained a well-loved brand with millions of customers annually. But retail analyst Sofie Willmott from GlobalData said Poundland's appeal has been waning as UK consumers sought better quality and value for money elsewhere. "Those who favoured Poundland for low price groceries have been tempted away by the supermarkets who have been aggressively competing on price, and the failure of its clothing range has been a distraction for the retailer", she said. Brands such as Temu and Shein have "fundamentally changed consumer expectations around price, speed and convenience"

BBQ - What do Poundland need to do to win back more customers?

Poundland

Ruly Energy Candy

 

‘Energy candy’ startup Ruly has secured a £500k investment to accelerate its rollout across UK retail. The funds, raised from angel investors – will support efforts to raise brand awareness and develop a “robust” NPD pipeline. Ruly’s first two flavours – Tropical and Red Berry – are currently being trialled in forecourts and independent retailers ahead of a wider trade rollout. Ruly was founded in 2024 by restaurant founder-turned-management consultant Sophie Murray and finance director Lydia Franks. The duo came up with the idea for a caffeinated gummy-style sweet to “power through the afternoon slumps” as an alternative to “the office birthday cake, sickly energy drinks, or a bit-too-late-in-the-day cup of coffee”. Each 42g pack of Ruly sweets contains 80mg of caffeine, alongside guarana and B vitamins. The gummies were designed for “micro-boosting” to “control your energy boost and not experience the crash that sugary energy drinks can cause”, according to the brand. With the sports and energy drinks category accounting for 34% of the £9.2bn carbonated soft drinks market in 2023, a similar share of the £1.9bn confectionery category would make ‘energy candy’ worth £640m in the UK, Ruly’s founders predicted.

BBQ - Is there a gap in the market for this type of product?

Ruly

Disney Cuts Costs

 

Disney says it is laying off several hundred more people around the world, with workers in its film, television and finance departments impacted. The entertainment giant has been under pressure as viewers move away from cable TV subscriptions in favour of streaming platforms. The latest job cuts follow major layoffs announced in 2023, when around 7,000 workers were let go as part of a drive by chief executive Bob Iger to save $5.5bn (£4.1bn). The cuts will impact multiple teams including marketing departments for its film and television units. Workers in Disney's casting and development and corporate finance departments will also be affected. "We have been surgical in our approach to minimise the number of impacted employees," said a spokesperson. The company also said that no teams will be closed down entirely. The California-based firm employs 233,000 workers, with just over 60,000 of those based outside the US. Disney owns a host of companies across the entertainment industry including Marvel, Hulu and ESPN. The firm reported stronger than expected earnings in May, with overall revenue of $23.6bn for the first three months of the year. That was a 7% increase from the same period in 2024. It said the growth was fuelled by new subscribers to its Disney+ streaming service.

BBQ - What could the impact be of the cost cutting done by Disney?

Disney Cut Costs