What: Walmart's strategic shift towards AI-driven retail, fashion, and e-commerce propels it to new heights in the competitive retail landscape.

Why it is important: Walmart's success in attracting a broader customer base, including higher-income shoppers, showcases the potential for mass-market retailers to expand their appeal through strategic investments in technology and product offerings.

Walmart's transformation from a traditional retailer to a tech-savvy powerhouse has been accelerated by the pandemic, forcing it to meet new consumer needs and shopping behaviors. The company has leveraged its deep pockets to drive AI-driven retail innovations, reshaping consumer and investor perceptions of its role as a retail and logistics behemoth. Walmart's fashion initiatives have gained traction, with private label offerings featured during New York Fashion Week. The company's omnichannel strategy, dubbed "people-led, tech-powered," spans marketplaces, advertising, and artificial intelligence, each contributing to incremental revenue and profitability. Walmart's success is evident in its financial performance, with recent six-month sales and operating income rising 5% and 9% respectively. The retailer is gaining market share across various categories and attracting higher-income customers. Walmart's expansion into advertising through Walmart Connect and its marketplace growth further diversify its revenue streams. The company's application of AI extends to improving its product catalog, customer service, and operational efficiencies. As Walmart continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it solidifies its position as a leading force in the evolving retail landscape.

IADS Notes: Walmart's recent initiatives highlight its aggressive push into  AI-driven retail, e-commerce, and advertising. In August 2024, Walmart leveraged generative AI to enhance its product catalog, improving over 850 million data points. This technological advancement supported its booming e-commerce sector, which surpassed $100 billion in sales for 2023, marking a 23% increase. Walmart's diversification strategy is evident in its expanding advertising business, Walmart Connect, positioning itself as a major player in the growing retail media industry. The company's commitment to innovative e-commerce solutions was further demonstrated by the launch of Walmart Realm, an immersive digital shopping experience. Underpinning these developments, Walmart achieved a significant 20% reduction in last-mile delivery costs, enhancing its e-commerce operations efficiency and strengthening its competitive position in the retail landscape.

Walmart AI-driven retail just leveled up

What: Macy's Inc. is preparing to hire more than 31,500 seasonal workers to enhance the holiday shopping experience.

Why it is important: This hiring initiative underscores Macy's commitment to providing excellent customer service during the busy holiday season and highlights its role in supporting employment opportunities across its locations.

Macy's Inc. has announced plans to recruit over 31,500 seasonal employees in anticipation of the upcoming holiday shopping period. These positions will be available across various roles, including customer service, fulfilment, and distribution centres, ensuring a seamless and joyful shopping experience for customers. The recruitment drive reflects Macy's strategy to meet increased consumer demand during the festive season and maintain high standards of customer service. By bolstering its workforce, Macy's aims to efficiently manage the holiday rush and deliver exceptional service across its stores and online platforms. This initiative also provides significant employment opportunities during a peak retail period, demonstrating Macy's impact on local economies.

Macy's to hire over 31,500 seasonal employees for holiday season

What: The fashion retail industry is exploring ways to enhance safety for women in both shopping environments and workplaces.

Why it is important: Addressing safety concerns is crucial for creating a secure and inclusive environment for female consumers and employees, which can lead to increased participation and satisfaction in the fashion retail sector.

The fashion retail industry is actively seeking solutions to improve safety for women, both as consumers and employees. This initiative is driven by the need to address prevalent issues such as harassment and discrimination that women face in retail spaces. Strategies being considered include implementing stricter policies against harassment, enhancing security measures, and fostering a more inclusive culture within retail environments. Retailers are also encouraged to provide training programs that educate staff on recognising and addressing inappropriate behaviour. By prioritising women's safety, the industry aims to create a more welcoming and supportive atmosphere, ultimately benefiting both businesses and their clientele.

Ensuring safety for women in fashion retail

What: Target is launching "The Cuddle Collab," a pet product collection designed in collaboration with social media pet influencers, or "fur-fluencers."

Why it is important: This initiative highlights Target's innovative approach to marketing by leveraging the popularity of pet influencers to engage with a large segment of its customer base, aiming to boost sales and brand loyalty among pet owners.

Target is set to debut "The Cuddle Collab," a unique collection created with six pet influencers, featuring over 180 pet-related items. The collaboration is part of Target's strategy to tap into the creator culture, aiming to resonate with the 70% of its shoppers who are pet owners. The marketing campaign includes reality TV-style social content and national ads featuring Target's mascot, Bullseye. The collection, available on September 21, includes pet essentials and matching accessories for owners, with prices starting at USD 3. This move is expected to strengthen Target's connection with millennial and Gen Z pet enthusiasts, contributing to the company's growth following a recent sales increase.

Target's Cuddle Collab: Engaging pet owners with 'fur-fluencer' partnerships

What: New World Development reports first annual loss in two decades as CEO Adrian Cheng steps down.

Why it is important: This development underscores the volatility in Hong Kong's property market and the challenges faced by even well-established companies, potentially influencing future investment and development strategies in the region.

Adrian Cheng has resigned as CEO of Hong Kong property developer New World Development, following the company's report of a HKD 11.807 billion (USD1.52 billion) loss. This marks the company's first annual loss in two decades. Ma Siu-Cheung has been appointed as Cheng's replacement. The loss is largely attributed to writedowns in the business. In August, the company had anticipated a one-off loss of USD1.06 billion from the disposal of NWS Holdings in fiscal 2024. Additionally, New World Development is in discussions with Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, another Cheng family-controlled company, regarding the potential disposal of its investment in Kai Tak Sports Park. Adrian Cheng, son of billionaire Henry Cheng, has also resigned his executive directorship with Chow Tai Fook, citing a desire to focus on public services and personal commitments. This move represents a significant shift for Cheng, who has held several key positions within New World Development, including those of executive vice-chairman and general manager. These changes come amid challenging times for Hong Kong's property and retail sectors, reflecting broader economic pressures in the region.

IADS Notes: Adrian Cheng's resignation from New World Development comes amid a broader context of shifting business strategies and challenging market conditions in Hong Kong. Earlier in 2024, Cheng had planned to list his investment unit, C Capital, on the SIX Swiss exchange, aiming to bring Asian investment opportunities closer to European investors. This move demonstrated Cheng's broader business interests beyond New World Development. Meanwhile, Hong Kong's retail sector has been facing significant challenges, with sales falling after an initial post-pandemic rebound. This decline is attributed to changing consumer behaviour, particularly among mainland Chinese visitors, which has impacted the overall retail performance in the city. These trends align with the broader economic challenges facing companies like New World Development, highlighting the complex business environment in which Cheng's resignation takes place.

Adrian Cheng resigns as New World Development CEO

What: Siam Piwat Group and Hyundai Department Store host an exclusive event in Seoul, showcasing cross-cultural luxury experiences.

Why it is important: It demonstrates the growing trend of international retail partnerships focusing on exclusive, experiential offerings for high-value customers.

Siam Piwat Group and Hyundai Department Store hosted an exclusive event at the Korea Furniture Museum in Seoul, offering their customers unique experiences and privileges. The event, themed "Journey Without Borders," featured a blend of traditional Korean culture and modern luxury experiences. Guests toured the museum's traditional 'Hanok' houses and rare furniture collection before enjoying a six-course dinner curated by Michelin-starred chefs from Korea, Thailand, and the United States. The event also included a collaboration with Korean eyewear brand Gentle Monster, offering custom gifts to attendees.

This event is part of a broader business agreement between Siam Piwat and Hyundai Department Store, aimed at expanding their reach in the global retail market. Both companies emphasized the importance of connecting their esteemed communities and sharing cultural experiences. The collaboration reflects a growing trend in retail, where high-end department stores are focusing on creating unique, cross-cultural experiences to engage and retain their most valuable customers in an increasingly competitive global market.

Siam Piwat, Hyundai host exclusive event in Seoul

What: Selfridges has entered into a partnership with Criteo to introduce sponsored products on its e-commerce websites.

Why it is important: This collaboration enhances Selfridges' digital marketing capabilities, potentially increasing online sales and improving customer engagement through targeted advertising.

Selfridges, the renowned department store, has partnered with Criteo, a global technology company specialising in commerce media, to incorporate sponsored products on its e-commerce platforms. This strategic move aims to bolster Selfridges' online presence by leveraging Criteo's expertise in targeted advertising. Through this partnership, Selfridges seeks to enhance the shopping experience by offering personalised product recommendations and advertisements that align with customers' interests and browsing behaviours. The integration of sponsored products is expected to drive higher engagement and conversion rates, contributing to the growth of Selfridges' digital sales channel. By adopting advanced advertising solutions, Selfridges positions itself at the forefront of retail innovation, adapting to the evolving landscape of online shopping.

Selfridges partners with Criteo for sponsored products on e-commerce platforms

What: Major US department store chains are exploring privatization and mergers to combat falling revenues and adapt to changing retail landscapes.

Why it is important: The trend underscores the mounting pressure on traditional retail models, highlighting the necessity for radical transformation in operations, customer engagement, and business structures to remain viable in the modern retail environment.

The US department store sector is undergoing significant changes as major players seek to reinvent themselves in a challenging retail environment. Nordstrom's founding family has partnered with a Mexican retailer to take the company private, aiming to focus on fixing its retail business without the pressures of quarterly earnings reports. Similarly, Macy's has faced repeated acquisition attempts from Arkhouse Management and Brigade Capital Management, while struggling with declining sales and profitability.

These moves reflect a broader trend in the industry, with department stores' market share plummeting from 14% of total retail sales in 1993 to less than 3% today. The sector faces intense competition from luxury retailers, discount chains like TJ Maxx, and the rise of e-commerce. Some companies, like Sears and JCPenney, have already gone through bankruptcy and re-emerged under private ownership.

Consolidation is also reshaping the landscape, as evidenced by Hudson's Bay Company's acquisition of Neiman Marcus to merge with Saks Fifth Avenue. This trend towards privatization and mergers is driven by the need to streamline operations, reduce costs, and gain more flexibility to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Despite these efforts, department stores continue to face significant challenges. They struggle to differentiate themselves and are squeezed between luxury and discount retailers. The shift towards online shopping and direct-to-consumer sales by brands further complicates their position. As these retailers navigate this difficult terrain, the future of the traditional department store model remains uncertain.

IADS Notes: The US department store landscape is undergoing significant changes, driven by financial pressures and evolving consumer behaviours. Nordstrom's attempts to go private, led by the founding family, reflect a desire for greater operational flexibility without public market scrutiny . Meanwhile, Macy's faces substantial challenges, implementing a major restructuring plan that includes closing 150 stores over three years amidst declining sales and profitability . These individual company struggles are symptomatic of broader industry trends, with department stores' market share plummeting from 14% of total retail sales in 1993 to less than 3% today . In response to these pressures, the industry is seeing consolidation, exemplified by Hudson's Bay Company's acquisition of Neiman Marcus Group to merge with Saks Fifth Avenue, aiming to create synergies and boost competitiveness in the luxury retail market.

The private life will not suit US department stores

What: The National Retail Federation (NRF) and Comexposium are launching "Retail's Big Show Europe" in Paris.

Why it is important: This event marks a significant expansion of NRF's influence into the European market, providing a platform for retailers to explore new trends, technologies, and strategies in the retail industry on an international stage.

The National Retail Federation (NRF), in collaboration with Comexposium, is set to host "Retail's Big Show Europe" in Paris. This new event aims to bring together retailers from across Europe and beyond to discuss the latest trends, innovations, and challenges facing the retail industry. By expanding its flagship event to Europe, NRF seeks to foster global collaboration and provide retailers with insights into emerging technologies and strategies that can drive growth and efficiency. The event will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, offering attendees a comprehensive view of the current retail landscape. This initiative underscores NRF's commitment to supporting the retail sector worldwide by facilitating knowledge exchange and innovation.

NRF and Comexposium launch Retail's Big Show Europe in Paris

What: PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) forecasts that China's luxury market will recover by 2025, driven by new consumer segments, offline channel expansion, and the growth potential of regions like Hainan.

Why it is important: The anticipated recovery of China's luxury market underscores the country's pivotal role in the global luxury industry. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for luxury brands aiming to capitalize on emerging opportunities and adapt to evolving consumer preferences.

PwC's report predicts that China's personal luxury goods market will regain momentum by 2025, following a downturn due to the pandemic. This recovery is expected to be fueled by the emergence of new consumer demographics, expansion of offline retail channels, and the high growth potential of regions like Hainan. The report suggests that China could surpass the United States as the world's largest luxury market, potentially reaching a market size of USD 148 billion by 2030. However, luxury brands must focus on delivering high-quality, personalized experiences to attract and retain very important customers (VICs) and ultra-high net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). Additionally, sustainability is highlighted as a growing concern, with Chinese consumers willing to pay a premium for environmentally-friendly products. The report also identifies Southeast Asia as an emerging luxury market, driven by increasing wealth and luxury tourism.

PwC predicts recovery in China's luxury market

What: Sézane has inaugurated a new retail space within Liberty London.

Why it is important: This expansion into Liberty London signifies Sézane's strategic growth in the UK market, enhancing its brand presence and accessibility to a broader audience.

French fashion brand Sézane has opened a new retail space at Liberty London, marking a significant step in its international expansion strategy. This move allows Sézane to tap into the prestigious and historic retail environment of Liberty, offering its collections to a wider audience in the UK. The collaboration with Liberty London is expected to boost Sézane's visibility and attract fashion-conscious consumers who frequent the iconic department store. By establishing a presence in such a renowned location, Sézane aims to strengthen its brand identity and increase its market share in the competitive UK fashion industry.

Sézane opens retail space at Liberty London

What: Simon Malls is launching an e-commerce platform to sell discounted items from its retail tenants, aiming to merge physical and digital shopping experiences.

Why it is important: This initiative represents a strategic move by Simon Malls to adapt to the evolving retail landscape by integrating online and offline shopping, potentially increasing foot traffic to physical stores and enhancing tenant sales.

Simon Malls, a leading retail real estate company, is introducing an e-commerce platform that will feature discounted items from its retail tenants. This move is part of Simon's strategy to blend physical and digital shopping experiences, providing consumers with the convenience of online shopping while driving traffic to its malls. The platform will allow customers to purchase sale items online and pick them up in-store, creating a seamless shopping experience. This initiative aims to support Simon's tenants by increasing their sales opportunities and attracting more visitors to the malls. As the retail industry continues to evolve, Simon Malls is positioning itself to meet changing consumer preferences and enhance the value of its retail properties.

Simon Malls launches e-commerce platform for sale items

What: Liverpool has formed a partnership with the Mexican brand Dupuis.

Why it is important: This alliance enhances Liverpool's product offerings by incorporating Dupuis' unique designs, potentially attracting a broader customer base and strengthening its position in the Mexican retail market.

Liverpool, a leading department store chain in Mexico, has announced a strategic partnership with Dupuis, a renowned Mexican furniture and home decor brand. This collaboration aims to expand Liverpool's product range by integrating Dupuis' distinctive style and craftsmanship into its offerings. By joining forces with Dupuis, Liverpool seeks to enhance its appeal to consumers looking for high-quality and stylish home furnishings. This partnership not only reflects Liverpool's commitment to supporting local brands but also underscores its strategy to diversify and enrich its product lineup. The alliance is expected to drive growth for both companies by leveraging their combined strengths in design, quality, and market reach.

Liverpool partners with Mexican brand Dupuis

What: Walmart made its debut at New York Fashion Week with a pop-up boutique showcasing its in-house brands, Scoop and Free Assembly.

Why it is important: This marks a significant step in Walmart's strategy to reposition itself as a fashion destination, challenging traditional perceptions and expanding its market reach beyond groceries and essentials.

Walmart's participation in New York Fashion Week represents a bold move to establish itself in the fashion industry. The pop-up boutique in New York's Meatpacking District featured affordable fashion items from Walmart's brands, Scoop and Free Assembly, with prices ranging from USD 9 to USD 54. This initiative is part of Walmart's broader strategy to enhance its fashion offerings, improve the shopping experience, and change consumer perceptions. Under the leadership of Denise Incandela and the creative direction of Brandon Maxwell, Walmart has tripled sales for Scoop and Free Assembly since 2021. The retailer has also revamped its private labels and expanded its fashion range to include popular third-party brands like Levi's and Reebok. This strategic shift aims to make Walmart a leading fashion destination, appealing to a broader audience and integrating high fashion with accessible pricing.

Walmart's Fashion Week debut: A new era in retail

What: Thai retail giants commit to net-zero emissions and circular economy practices, showcasing industry-wide shift towards sustainability.

Why it is important: The adoption of ambitious sustainability goals by leading Thai retailers demonstrates the growing recognition of environmental responsibility as a key factor in maintaining competitiveness and meeting evolving consumer expectations.

Major Thai retailers are making significant strides towards sustainability, with companies like Central Retail Corporation (CRC) and Siam Piwat leading the charge. CRC aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and become a leader in green and sustainable retail. For 2024, the company targets a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Siam Piwat has been addressing environmental issues for over a decade, focusing on renewable energy systems, electricity consumption reduction, and comprehensive waste management. Their "ONESIAM Drinking Water" project, featuring infinitely recyclable aluminium cans, contributes to their goal of reducing landfill waste by 50% by 2030.

Other retailers like CP All (7-Eleven operator) and The Mall Group are also implementing sustainability strategies. CP All aims for carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. The Mall Group is working towards eliminating 100% of plastic use by 2030.

These initiatives encompass various aspects of sustainability, including green operations, renewable energy adoption, waste reduction, and circular economy practices. The collective effort reflects a growing trend in the retail sector towards environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices.

The retail industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability, with the potential for significant economic and environmental benefits. As highlighted in "The potential of sustainable retail" report, sustainable retail practices can add nearly £100m to local economies and boost retail brand revenues by up to 13% over the long term. Key features of sustainable retail include increased use of renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, reduction in plastic use, and focus on ethical supply chains. This trend is exemplified by companies like Siam Piwat Group, which has committed to ambitious sustainability goals, including net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and 100% renewable energy use by 2030. Additionally, Siam Piwat is focusing on waste management, aiming to divert half of their waste from landfills by 2030, demonstrating the comprehensive approach retailers are taking towards sustainability.

Thai Retail giants set their sights on ‘green stores’

What: Walmart is expanding its marketplace service by focusing on collectible sneakers.

Why it is important: By tapping into the lucrative market of collectible sneakers, Walmart aims to attract a new customer base and diversify its product offerings, potentially increasing its market share and enhancing its competitive position in the e-commerce sector.

Walmart is making a strategic move to grow its marketplace service by betting on the popularity of collectible sneakers. This initiative is designed to attract sneaker enthusiasts and collectors, thereby broadening Walmart's customer base and diversifying its online marketplace offerings. The focus on collectible sneakers aligns with current consumer trends and the growing demand for unique and limited-edition products. This strategy could help Walmart capture a larger share of the e-commerce market and strengthen its position against competitors.

Walmart bets on collectible sneakers to enhance marketplace service

What: Frasers Group has acquired the St Nicholas Arcade in Lancaster as part of its strategy to expand its property portfolio.

Why it is important: This acquisition underscores Frasers Group's commitment to physical retail and its strategy to revitalize high streets, potentially enhancing consumer shopping experiences and delivering long-term value.

Frasers Group has announced the acquisition of St Nicholas Arcade, a 160,000-square-foot shopping centre located in Lancaster's historic town center. The arcade, which attracts nearly four million visitors annually, hosts tenants such as Next, Boots, HMV, and The Entertainer. According to Michael Murray, Frasers Group's chief executive, the acquisition aligns with the company's belief in the strength of physical retail and its goal to rejuvenate high streets across the UK. This move is part of Frasers Group's broader strategy to develop its property segment and unlock new growth opportunities, aiming to provide unparalleled shopping experiences and deliver significant long-term value.

Frasers Group expands property portfolio with Lancaster acquisition

What: John Lewis has announced a three-part Christmas campaign series, starting with the relaunch of its "Never Knowingly Undersold" platform on September 9.

Why it is important: This campaign marks a significant return to John Lewis's traditional pricing promise, enhancing its competitive edge by matching prices with major retailers, and aims to solidify its position as the UK's leading gifting destination.

John Lewis's Christmas campaign, designed by Saatchi & Saatchi, will include three films and a significant advertising push, including a London Underground takeover and out-of-home adverts. The first film, premiering on September 19, features Samantha Morton's voice and a cover of Paul Simon's song by Laura Mvula. The campaign emphasizes John Lewis's role as a gifting destination and revives the "Never Knowingly Undersold" promise, allowing the department store to price match with 25 major retailers like M&S and Boots. This strategic move comes two years after the promise was initially scrapped.

John Lewis unveils three-part Christmas campaign

What: Harrods has introduced staff training to address sexual harassment in response to increasing violence against women in public spaces.

Why it is important: This initiative reflects a growing trend among businesses to actively combat harassment and violence, highlighting the need for proactive measures to ensure safety and support for women in public and retail environments.

Harrods has taken significant steps to combat sexual harassment by training its staff to intervene when shoppers face such issues. This move comes amid a broader context of rising violence against women, with recent statistics showing a 50% increase in violent attacks on women and girls on the UK rail network over the past two years. Harrods has implemented a policy requiring all employees to undergo training on recognizing and addressing harassment, with around 50 specially trained staff members now available across various departments. This initiative is part of a wider effort by businesses to tackle the increasing public attacks on women.

Harrods implements staff training to combat sexual harassment amid rising crime

What: Hyundai Department Store launches Connect Hyundai, a new concept combining department stores, outlets, and art galleries in Busan.

Why it is important: It represents a significant shift in retail strategy, aiming to attract younger consumers with a mix of premium and cost-effective offerings alongside cultural experiences.

Hyundai Department Store is launching Connect Hyundai, an innovative urban complex shopping mall in Busan, combining department stores, outlets, and art galleries. This new concept, opening on October 6th, aims to provide a comprehensive shopping experience for the new generation of consumers seeking both premium and cost-effective products in one location.

Connect Hyundai features 240 brands across 14 floors, including local content reflecting Busan's characteristics. The complex incorporates art installations, cultural facilities, and a next-generation cultural center to attract younger customers. Notable features include a 5m-tall art piece "The Biggernery" and a Greenery Lounge for relaxation. The shopping area introduces popular K-fashion brands and practical complexes offering discounted products. The F&B section combines global brands with local content. This project, led by President Jung Ji-young, follows the success of The Hyundai Seoul and aims to revitalize provincial retail. Hyundai Department Store is considering expanding this model to other locations, starting with Cheongju.

Hyundai launches a new concept

What: China's gray market is significantly impacting the online sales of luxury brands.

Why it is important: China's dominance of the gray market poses challenges for luxury brands in maintaining pricing control and brand integrity, affecting their global sales strategies and profit margins.

The gray market in China is having a profound influence on the online sales of luxury brands. This market, which involves the sale of genuine products through unauthorized channels, is thriving due to the high demand for luxury goods in China. As a result, luxury brands are struggling to manage their pricing strategies and maintain brand exclusivity. This phenomenon is forcing brands to reconsider their sales and distribution strategies to protect their brand image and profitability in one of the world's largest luxury markets.

China's gray market dominates luxury brands' online sales

What: Stockmann's department stores likely to be sold off from Lindex Group, according to experts.

Why it is important: The potential sale highlights the shift in focus towards more profitable segments within retail conglomerates.

Experts anticipate that Stockmann's department stores will likely be sold off from Lindex Group (formerly Stockmann Group) as part of an ongoing strategic review. The most probable buyer is Nordic Retail Partners, a joint venture between Swiss JC Holding and Finnish Konstsamfundet, which already owns 15% of the group.

The decision to separate the department stores from Lindex, a more profitable Swedish women's fashion chain, is driven by the need to improve overall group performance. Stockmann's department stores have been struggling, while Lindex has been supporting the group's profitability.

Analysts suggest that selling the department stores could increase Lindex Group's value, potentially raising the share price from under 3 euros to around 4 euros. However, the sale price for the department stores is expected to be low due to their unprofitable nature.

The outcome of this strategic review, expected to be announced this year, could lead to the closure of some underperforming department stores, although iconic locations like Helsinki's city center store are likely to remain operational.

Lindex might be selling Stockmann department stores to minority shareholder

What: The H beauty Carnival is returning to Harrods locations this October, offering a range of beauty experiences and events.

Why it is important: This event provides an immersive beauty experience, enhancing customer engagement and showcasing Harrods' commitment to offering unique and interactive retail events.

The H beauty Carnival is back, bringing an exciting lineup of beauty events to Harrods locations throughout September and October. This year's carnival promises to be bigger than ever, featuring opportunities for attendees to win full-sized products from the viral beauty vending machine, build personalised goodie bags, and participate in expert-led masterclasses. The carnival will also offer express dry styling at Drybar, flash facials at the Skincare Station, LED treatments, mini makeovers, and a phone charm-making station. Attendees can choose between a free H beauty Carnival Pass for MyBeauty members or upgrade to a Luxe Pass for GBP 15, which includes additional perks like a turn on the beauty vending machine and a complimentary Carnival tote bag. The carnival will take place at various locations, including Edinburgh, Gateshead, Milton Keynes, Bristol, and Lakeside. This event is in partnership with renowned brands such as Armani Beauty, Kylie Cosmetics, Pat McGrath Labs, and more.

H Beauty Carnival returns to Harrods locations

What: In Singapore, mall rents are increasing while sales remain stagnant, creating a challenging environment for retailers.

Why it is important: This situation highlights the financial pressures faced by retailers in Singapore, as rising operational costs are not matched by corresponding sales growth, potentially impacting profitability and sustainability.

Singapore's retail sector is facing a challenging scenario where mall rents are on the rise, yet sales have not seen a corresponding increase. This disparity is causing concern among retailers who are struggling to maintain profitability amid higher operational costs. The situation underscores the need for strategic adjustments and innovative approaches to attract consumers and boost sales in a competitive market. Retailers are being urged to adapt to changing consumer preferences and explore new ways to enhance the shopping experience to drive foot traffic and sales in malls.

Rising rents, stagnant sales: The dilemma facing Singapore malls