Georgia Wright

London

News Editor at Retail Gazette

Senior journo @RetailGazette | BA’21 @cityjournalism alumna [email protected] | views my own

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Articles

M&S customer data stolen amid ongoing cyber attack - Retail Gazette

2 days ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

M&S has confirmed that personal customer data has been compromised in the ongoing cyber attack that has plagued the retailer’s operations for more than three weeks.
Debenhams launches virtual try-on tech to boost digital engagement

6 days ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Debenhams has introduced virtual try-on technology to enhance customer experience across its digital channels, starting with its beauty offering and aiming to expand into fashion in the coming months. The move is part of the online department store’s wider strategy to increase personalisation and interactivity online, helping shoppers feel more confident in their purchases.
Sainsbury’s lets shoppers skip tills with new SmartShop trial

6 days ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Sainsbury’s has launched a trial allowing customers to pay directly on its handheld SmartShop devices, removing the need to visit a traditional checkout as part of wider efforts to streamline the shopping experience. According to The Grocer, the new functionality, currently being tested in two stores—Richmond and Kempton—marks the first time shoppers using the in-store handsets can complete payment without queuing at tills.
Primark to enter Middle East market with four stores by 2026

6 days ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Primark will make its Middle East debut by early 2026 with four stores across the UAE and Kuwait, in partnership with franchise operator Alshaya Group. The retailer‘s first store is set to open in October at The Avenues in Kuwait. This will be followed by three locations in Dubai—Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and City Centre Mirdif—in early 2026. Primark and Alshaya also plan to explore additional expansion opportunities across the region.
Pandora trims profitability target despite strong US growth amid tariff fears

1 week ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Pandora has lowered its annual profit margin guidance for 2025 after a strong start to the year, citing the decline of the U.S. dollar and the potential impact of rising U.S. tariffs on its costs. The Danish jewellery giant saw first-quarter sales in the U.S. grow 11%, making it the strongest market for the brand. Revenue in North America accounted for 32% of Pandora’s total sales, underlining its importance to the company’s performance.
Next lifts profit forecast again as warm spring drives £55m sales boost

1 week ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Next has raised its annual profit forecast for the second time this year after warmer spring weather drove stronger-than-expected sales in the first quarter. The fashion and home retail giant saw full price sales rise 11.4% in the 13 weeks to 26 April — ahead of the 6.5% increase it had forecast — delivering a £55m sales boost. The business now expects to post a pre-tax profit of £1.08bn for the 2025/26 financial year, up from its previous estimate of £1.066bn.
Co-op reroutes stock to rural stores amid cyber attack disruptions

1 week ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Co-op is prioritising deliveries to rural and island-based stores as it works to minimise disruption caused by an ongoing cyber attack that has affected supply chains across its UK store network. The move comes amid growing concern over shortages in isolated communities, with some stores—particularly across the Scottish isles—reportedly running low on essential items following the attack.
Ex-Poundland director Tim Bettley named MD at The Original Factory Shop

1 week ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) has appointed Tim Bettley as its new managing director. Bettley brings over 35 years of retail experience, having most recently served as commercial director at Poundland & Dealz.
Next to triple Bluewater store footprint with major expansion next year

1 week ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Next is preparing to significantly expand its presence at Bluewater Shopping Centre by taking over the former House of Fraser unit in 2026. The fashion and homeware giant is set to triple its current footprint, moving from its 44,600sq ft space to a 133,000sq ft location. This new store will be one of the retailer’s largest branches in the UK, promising to offer an even broader range of clothing, homeware, and a café for shoppers to enjoy.
Card Factory outpaces market with strong FY25 growth

1 week ago | retailgazette.co.uk | Georgia Wright

Card Factory has posted a solid financial performance for the year ending 31 January 2025, with revenue rising by 6.2% to £542.5m, outpacing the wider celebrations market. The greeting card and gift retailer continued to build momentum across its store estate, with total store revenue growing by 5.8% and like-for-like store sales rising by 3.4%. The expansion of its product ranges, particularly in gifts and celebration essentials, helped drive a 5.4% increase in average basket value.