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EDITORIAL How economic concerns are affecting retail – and shoppers; M&S on marketplaces

Image: Fotolia

Image: Fotolia

Economic concerns are a constant theme of today’s InternetRetailing newsletter. But there’s also a more inspiring insight into how M&S is boosting its international sales by selling on marketplaces around the world.

In today’s newsletter, we’re reporting on the reversal of mini-budget measures that the retail industry had previously welcomed, including a decision to not now reintroduce tax-free shopping, as well as turning away from measures that had been hoped to boost consumer spending. 

We also report on IBM’s holiday spending and travel report, which suggests that shoppers will spend less if inflation continues to rise. However, they are also bringing forward spending, suggests the report, something that has been reflecting in early discounting. 

The current economic climate has proved particularly difficult for homewares brands. Bensons for Beds yesterday bought Eve Sleep out of administration after the smaller brand’s chief executive Cheryl Calverley said its scale had been “insufficient to withstand the economic tsunami that has gathered momentum over the past six months”. Bensons for Beds says the acquisition is part of its strategy to invest in both growth and in digital.

Meanwhile, Made yesterday gave the latest update in its strategic review – one that could lead to its own sale. The homewares brand says it has been hit hard by rising inflation and a fall in consumer confidence. Now it is inviting firm offers from some of those that have now put forward initial proposals. 

In today’s guest comment, Boris Lokschin of Spryker considers alternatives to robot delivery

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