In today’s InternetRetailing we’re reporting as the cost-of-living crisis takes its toll. Asda has reported a 9.2% LFL fall in sales in the first quarter, which it links to a record fall in shoppers’ disposable income. It also points to action including raising staff wages and putting essential food prices on hold for the rest of the year.
Meanwhile a new report from the Retail Trust warns that one in five retail staff want to leave the industry, including almost a third of those employed by larger retailers. It says that finances, mental health and in-store abuse are all behind the potential exodus from the industry.
This crisis does not affect everyone in the same way. But brand Ted Baker is still looking for capital-light routes to expansion and sales growth even though its customers may be less immediately affected by reductions to disposable income.
Weird Fish is looking to expand via partners including Next and Zalando – another potentially capital-light approach to sales – following fast online growth in recent years.
Meanwhile, luxury retailer Flannels says its new Liverpool flagship store will be home to a ‘world first’ social media integrated clinic.
We also have the latest on how delivery industry companies from DPD, Yodel to Metapack are taking action to improve their sustainability. In a cost-of-living crisis, the most sustainable way to shop is not to buy at all. So delivery companies and retailers that boost their sustainability may well make it more likely that eco-conscious shoppers will choose to buy from, or using, them.
In today’s guest comment, Jody Roger of tcc considers the role of gamification in retail – and how it relates to loyalty.
