UK Retailers Report Poor Sales Leading Up to Christmas, CBI Reports
British retailers experienced a lackluster performance in the lead-up to the Christmas holidays, with sales declining and concerns rising about increased costs in 2025, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). The CBI’s monthly retail sales headline balance showed a slight improvement to -15 in December from -18 in November, after contracting in October.
Kaufland Launches Sustainable Hypermarket in Bulgaria
Kaufland Bulgaria has introduced an environmentally friendly store in Sofia’s Izgrev district, which has been awarded the Edge Sustainable Building Certificate. This new store is hailed as Kaufland’s most eco-friendly outlet to date, with an investment of over BGN 54 million (€27.6 million). Customers can choose from a wide range of fresh and quality products, including items from over 300 local suppliers, with a dedicated section for produce from 40 local farms.
Auchan Retail Portugal Begins Rebranding of Minipreço Stores
Auchan Retail Portugal has reopened the first five Minipreço stores in the Greater Lisbon area under the Auchan Supermercado and My Auchan banners. These stores will focus on offering fresh produce, local products, and Auchan private-label brand items.
Ocado and Morrisons Customers Face Christmas Chaos
Middle-class shoppers in the UK were left without essential Christmas items after Ocado experienced a malfunction at its delivery center, while Morrisons canceled online orders just days before Christmas. Customers expressed frustration over missing items in their orders, creating a Christmas nightmare for many.
Project Provides Residents with Access to Fresh Produce in the UK
The Fresh Street Community project in the UK aimed to promote healthy eating habits by providing residents with vouchers to access seasonal fruits and vegetables. The initiative, led by food researchers from the University of Plymouth, has been well-received, with residents eating more fruits and vegetables and sharing recipe ideas.
BWG Foods in Ireland Receives Multiple Awards
BWG Foods, the operator of the SPAR license in Ireland, was recognized for its sustainable practices with awards such as the 2024 SEAI Energy Award for Transport and the Sustainability Initiative of the Year award. The company’s logistics and supply chain services for its retail stores have been acknowledged for excellence in sustainable and renewable energy.
Fresh4U Produce in the UK Expands Global Trade
Fresh4U Produce, founded by Danial Paisawala and Hatim, has seen success in the UK market with five branches offering a variety of fruits and vegetables. By partnering with WorldFirst, the company has expanded its presence in key markets across London and Europe, testing new varieties from South American exporters.
Just Eat Takeaway.com Reveals Food Trends for the Future
Just Eat Takeaway.com has published Food Trends Reports showcasing consumer preferences and emerging food trends for the upcoming year. The reports highlight key trends such as Honest Cuisine, Self-care, Nocturnal living, Feed the Fandom, and Elevated Rituals.
Foxtrot Expands in the US Market
Foxtrot Café and Market has opened two new locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, following successful operations in Chicago. The upscale corner store and café is attracting shoppers with its unique offerings in Dallas.
Grocery Outlet Continues Expansion Efforts in the US
Grocery Outlet Holding Corp. has expanded its presence in the US with 533 stores across 16 states, including new locations in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and Delaware. The historically West Coast grocer is making strides in its eastward expansion.
US Government Sues Walmart and Branch Messenger Over Payment Accounts
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has filed a lawsuit against Walmart and Branch Messenger for allegedly forcing delivery drivers to use costly and poorly managed deposit accounts to receive their pay. The lawsuit claims that drivers’ pay was deposited into Branch accounts without their consent since 2021.
In conclusion, the retail industry in the UK and around the world has seen a mix of challenges and successes in recent months, with companies adapting to changing consumer demands and market conditions. As we look ahead to the new year, it will be crucial for retailers to continue innovating and addressing the evolving needs of customers to thrive in the competitive market landscape.