Today in retail: Retailers with staying power

The quartet were all named in the upper echelons of this year’s Retail Week Power List, which recognises the top leaders, innovators and strategic thinkers that our vibrant and fast-moving sector has to offer.

Despite the seismic impact Brexit has had on sourcing costs, consumer confidence and disposable income over the past year, there has been much to celebrate as retail’s trailblazers continue to provide products, services and experiences that customers didn’t even realise they wanted.

Coupe’s Sainsbury’s has acquired Argos to help create its ‘supermarket of the future’ and improve its fulfilment proposition.

James’ Dixons Carphone is driving its KnowHow service arm and ramping up its digital platform HoneyBee to streamline person-to-person selling.

And Lewis’ Tesco is seeking to tap into the rapidly-growing foodservice and wholesale markets by acquiring Booker, to name but three.

Despite the incredibly uncertain times in which we now live, it is retail leaders like these, who look to the future rather than worrying about the past, that ensure their businesses don’t just survive, but thrive.

Quote of the day

“In a world that’s changing very quickly, I’ll be ensuring we’re putting our focus and investment in the areas that will reap the benefits in the long term.” 

– Paperchase chairman Nick Wood discusses the growth plan for the business.

Today in numbers

2.9%

The rate of inflation the UK reached in May, as measured by the Consumer Prices Index.

2p

The amount per pound that Jaeger’s suppliers are set to receive following the retailer’s collapse into administration earlier this year.

5

The number of years Andy Higginson has spent as chairman at fashion group N Brown ahead of his decision to step down.

Tomorrow’s agenda

High street stalwart WHSmith updates the market with details of its third quarter trading performance.

Luke Tugby, head of content