Today’s news in brief-26/2/25
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has warned that one in 10 part-time retail jobs, equating to up to 160,000 roles, could be at risk over the next three years due to rising employment costs. The BRC highlighted that part-time jobs are particularly vulnerable to changes in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) thresholds, which will now tax retailers for employees earning over £5,000, down from £9,100. This shift, combined with proposed changes under the Employment Rights Bill, could force retailers to reduce flexible and seasonal roles, disproportionately affecting part-time workers. The BRC’s 2025 Manifesto for Retail calls for government action to mitigate £7bn in industry costs, warning that without intervention, job losses and higher prices are inevitable.
UK retailers like Marks & Spencer (54%) and John Lewis (56.4%) are leading the way in female board representation, according to the FTSE Women Leaders Review 2025. The report reveals that women now hold nearly 43% of board roles across UK companies, with retailers outperforming the average. However, the government acknowledges more progress is needed, particularly in increasing female representation in executive roles such as CEOs and chairs.
Hammerson, the owner of major UK and Irish shopping centres, reported a fall in gross rental income to £189m for 2024, alongside a £526m loss, largely due to impairments from the sale of Value Retail. Despite this, the company described the year as “transformative,” having reduced net debt by 40% to £799m. The company’s UK sales rose by 5%, with significant leasing activity and investments in key locations like The Bullring and Dundrum Town Centre.
Gymshark has appointed Kim Dolder as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), marking a significant step in its US expansion strategy. Dolder, previously Gymshark’s North America General Manager, will lead the brand’s transition to an omnichannel enterprise from its New York office. Her role will focus on driving revenue, scaling new business channels, and expanding Gymshark’s retail footprint.
Sports Direct has launched a new membership scheme aimed at rewarding loyal customers with exclusive benefits, personalised offers, and a seamless omnichannel experience. The free programme, available to anyone with an online account, includes discounts, monthly prize draws, and access to member events. It also offers perks like free access to the Everlast Gyms fitness app and discounted gym memberships.
Angling Direct reported an 11.9% revenue surge to £91.3m in FY 2025, driven by strong second-half trading and growth in its UK business, which saw sales rise 11.7% to £86.4m. UK like-for-like store sales grew 14.2% to £50.7m, supported by increased footfall and transaction volumes, while online sales rose 8.4% to £35.7m, bolstered by the MyAD loyalty scheme, which now has over 409,000 subscribers. The company expanded its store network, opening three new UK locations and acquiring three businesses, bringing its total to 53 stores. European online sales also grew 7.1% to £4.6m, with progress in reducing operating losses and the opening of its first European store in Utrecht.
