Author: Sam Allcock

Sam Allcock delves into the latest trends and insights in the world of SEO and data analytics, providing valuable guidance for businesses looking to thrive in the digital landscape. When not crunching numbers or crafting content, Sam enjoys exploring Manchester's vibrant tech scene and sharing his knowledge through workshops and speaking engagements.

Regatta has appointed Tom Goodman as the new chief digital and technology officer.Goodman will lead key initiatives in digital, customer experience, tech, and AI.He aims to enhance Regatta’s omnichannel experience through a new membership scheme.Goodman brings extensive experience from previous roles at Deloitte, Selfridges, and JD Sports.The Regatta board welcomes Goodman, expecting significant growth under his leadership.Regatta has announced the promotion of Tom Goodman to the position of chief digital and technology officer. This role will see Goodman spearheading advancements in digital operations, focusing heavily on customer experience, technology, and artificial intelligence initiatives within the Regatta Group.In pursuit of these…

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Marks & Spencer (M&S) has set a precedent as the first top UK retailer to offer stoma knickers.The product addresses needs identified by M&S staff and charity Colostomy UK.Initiated by M&S onboarding manager Jiggy Sohi from personal insights and shared experiences.Stoma knickers, available online and in select stores, aim for inclusion and comfort.M&S continues efforts towards accessible fashion, collaborating closely with affected individuals.Marks & Spencer has taken a pioneering step by becoming the first significant UK high street retailer to introduce stoma knickers. This product, which caters to the specific needs of individuals living with stomas, is a testament to…

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a clamshell-style foldable smartphone released in 2024. It brings some improvements over its predecessor but, most importantly, introduces new capabilities through AI-powered software. These enhancements make the unique form factor of the foldable device more convenient for everyday use. AI Features and Functionality The Galaxy Z Flip 6 incorporates a wide range of AI features. Basic functionalities include suggested replies on the cover display, which analyses the context of previous messages to offer responses. More advanced capabilities include translating PDF documents and creating summaries, composing emails and social media captions using simple text…

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As part of a strategic restructuring, Poundland is consulting on around 60 head office job cuts.Positions affected span across finance, supply chain, IT, and property departments.These changes aim to ensure an efficient and cost-effective business model.Pepco Group, Poundland’s owner, reported a significant revenue increase amid these adjustments.The company emphasizes its commitment to supporting impacted employees.Poundland, under the ownership of Pepco Group, is initiating a consultation process to potentially cut approximately 60 roles at its head office in Walsall. This decision forms part of a broader strategic effort to streamline operations and achieve greater cost efficiencies across its business units.The positions…

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Abercrombie & Fitch has inaugurated its latest retail outlet in the vibrant district of Spitalfields, London.This marks the brand’s first foray into east London, adding to its existing London locations.The store showcases both women’s and men’s collections amidst a light and bright shopping environment.Enhanced with omnichannel features, the store offers click-and-collect services alongside artistic installations.Abercrombie & Fitch has significantly improved its financial outlook, demonstrating robust growth and increased revenue projections.Abercrombie & Fitch has opened a new store located at 2 Horner Square in Spitalfields, marking its first establishment in east London. This opening adds to their existing presence in the…

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Asos has initiated a strategic three-year agreement with Microsoft to enhance operational efficiency through AI integration.The agreement includes the use of Microsoft Copilot, a generative AI tool, to assist Asos engineers in writing code more efficiently.Asos is leveraging Microsoft’s Power Automate to automate workplace processes, including meeting summaries and translations.The AI-powered stylist, launched by Asos in February, uses Microsoft’s Azure platform to help customers discover new fashion styles via a conversational interface.Victoria Arden, Asos’s technology operations director, expressed a commitment to driving operational excellence and unlocking creativity through these AI tools.In a significant move to bolster operational efficiency, Asos has…

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Industry leaders discuss the integration of technology to future-proof fashion retail.Chris Williamson emphasises the convergence of physical and digital worlds through AR and VR.Fashion retailers advised not to overlook disruptive innovations in tech.Panellists include experts from N Brown, Asos, Schuh, and EXL.Insights shared during the Drapers Future of Fashion Conference 2024.In a compelling episode of the Drapers Talks podcast, senior leaders from N Brown, Asos, Schuh, and EXL convened to discuss transformative technological strategies pivotal for future-proofing within the fashion retail sector. The discussion highlighted how imperative it is for retailers to embrace disruptive innovations to stay competitive and relevant…

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Seasalt has experienced a remarkable rise in operating profit, reaching £7.9m, a 146% increase.The company’s revenue grew by 12% compared to the previous year, totalling £132.6m.Seasalt expanded its physical presence with new store openings across the UK and Ireland.Partnerships with third-party platforms now contribute significantly to Seasalt’s revenue.Future growth plans include opening stores in North America to continue their upward trajectory.Seasalt has witnessed an extraordinary increase in operating profit, reporting a 146% surge to £7.9m for the year ending 27 January. This impressive growth is driven primarily by robust sales performance in its physical stores across the UK and Ireland.The…

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TikTok Shop is set to raise its commission fees for sellers in the UK, marking the first change since its launch in 2021.The new commission rate will increase from 5% to 9%, starting 2 September, aligning with its focus on live commerce and shoppable content.A ‘seller missions’ programme will allow sellers to lower their fees by meeting specific content creation goals.A co-funded free shipping model will launch on 4 September, aiming to boost order conversions by sharing shipping costs with sellers.The platform asserts its fees remain competitive, as it invests in enhancing operations and services.TikTok Shop, the e-commerce platform integrated…

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Crew Clothing is engaged in a court case with its former CEO, David Butler, over disputed compensation claims.Butler is accused of claiming unauthorised salary benefits amounting to over £600,000.Crew Clothing denies any agreement on these benefits and seeks compensation through legal means.Butler refutes the allegations and has countersued for wrongful dismissal.The case has disrupted Crew Clothing’s operations, as several senior leaders departed following Butler’s exit.The British casual wear retailer, Crew Clothing, has initiated legal proceedings against its former CEO, David Butler, accusing him of claiming unauthorised salary increases and bonuses worth £622,560. Crew Clothing asserts that Butler informed Rupert Hay,…

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