Today’s news in brief-11/6/24
One in three Asda staff have reported being attacked at work, according to a survey conducted by the GMB union. The poll of nearly 1,000 Asda employees revealed incidents of being stabbed, punched, threatened with syringes, and other violent acts, including delivery drivers being chased by cars and confronted by nude customers. Over half of the respondents also reported injuries or illness on the job. Asda has denied prior knowledge of the survey but acknowledged an increase in workplace violence, citing a £30m investment in enhanced security measures such as upgraded CCTV and body-worn cameras.
White Stuff is set to expand its wholesale business into the US following a successful trial in Michigan and Illinois. The British fashion retailer plans to launch in several states including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, featuring its womenswear in 18 independent US retailers. White Stuff aims to double its wholesale business over the next four years, building on its existing partnerships across Europe, Canada, and New Zealand.
Mango has appointed Nuria Font as the new director of Mango Home, the brand’s rapidly growing homeware line. Font, who has been with Mango since 2006 and previously headed the Wholesale Department, will lead Mango Home as it aims to reinforce its value proposition and expand its product categories. Founded in 2021, Mango Home has doubled in size and currently offers products in stores across major Spanish cities and 32 online marketplaces.
Sainsbury’s has introduced new packaging changes to significantly reduce plastic waste, aiming to save 694 tonnes of plastic annually. The supermarket chain is switching to pulp cardboard trays for its own-brand salmon fillets and breaded chicken lines, a move expected to cut plastic use by 70% and save 346 tonnes of plastic per year.
Planning permission for the second phase of Landsec’s £45m investment in Gunwharf Quays has been granted by Portsmouth City Council. This phase focuses on enhancing Marlborough Square, a key arrival point at the waterfront shopping destination. Planned improvements include upgrades to the entrance tunnel from Portsmouth Harbour train station, improved building aesthetics, expanded public seating, enhanced washroom facilities, and additional retail space.
Battersea Power Station Development Company has appointed Don O’Sullivan as its new CEO. O’Sullivan, who previously served as CEO of Galliard Homes, will lead the ongoing development of the iconic London site. His responsibilities will include overseeing the operation of the growing riverside neighbourhood, which has already welcomed over 11.2 million visitors in 2023 and is home to over 140 shops, bars, restaurants, and major office spaces including Apple’s UK headquarters.
