Today’s news in brief-4/2/25
Shein’s planned £50bn London IPO is under threat due to potential US tariff reforms and ongoing allegations of forced labor in its supply chain. Former President Donald Trump’s proposal to eliminate the ‘de minimis’ tax rule—which allows duty-free imports of small packages under $800 from China, Canada, and Mexico—could significantly raise costs for Shein, as most of its US orders are shipped via this method. The move has drawn criticism from US officials over the rule’s “overuse and abuse.” Concurrently, Shein faces a judicial review in the UK initiated by campaign group Stop Uyghur Genocide, which alleges the retailer benefits from forced labor in China’s Xinjiang region. Shein denies the claims, but scrutiny intensified after its representative failed to clarify cotton sourcing during a UK parliamentary committee hearing. With regulatory uncertainty and investor hesitancy, the fast-fashion giant’s London listing, initially eyed for April, remains in doubt.
Spanish fashion retailer Mango has unveiled plans to open 20 new UK stores in 2025, bolstering its presence in London, central England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. A flagship store on London’s Oxford Street, spanning 1,100 square meters and stocking its full range, will anchor the expansion. Additional locations include Birmingham, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Belfast, and Cardiff. The UK, where Mango already operates over 70 stores, is a priority market under its 2024–2026 strategic plan.
Aldi is set to create 1,600 jobs in 2025 as part of a £650m investment to expand its UK store network. New stores in March (Cambridgeshire), Moston (Greater Manchester), and Lytham (Lancashire) will open shortly, with nine additional London locations planned this year. The discount supermarket, which recorded its “best Christmas ever” in 2024 with £1.6 billion in sales, aims to open 100 more stores in London long-term, generating 3,500 jobs. Roles range from store assistants to management positions, with Aldi emphasising “market-leading pay” and career development.
HMV has promoted David Athey to commercial director and Kate Longbottom to head of marketing following the departure of marketing and commercial director Patrizia Leighton. Athey, a 35-year HMV veteran who began as a sales assistant, will oversee commercial strategy, supplier relations, and European expansion. Longbottom, who joined in 2022 after roles at Paramount and Virgin Megastores, will lead marketing across stores and e-commerce. Both executives aim to strengthen HMV’s high street and online presence, focusing on community events, artist collaborations, and pop-culture merchandise.
B&Q has expanded its Deliveroo trial to five larger London stores, offering over 9,500 DIY and home products for rapid delivery. Initially tested in high-street “Local” stores in August 2024, the service now includes Beckton, Sidcup, Watford, Acton, and Romford locations, with orders arriving in as little as 25 minutes. The expanded range includes paint, gardening tools, and home furnishings.
Morrisons has rolled out braille menus across all its cafés to improve accessibility for visually impaired customers. The initiative, developed in consultation with Guide Dogs, ensures menus feature the same meal options and deals in braille. Sean Gill, Morrisons’ café director, stated the change addresses feedback from customers who found dining out daunting.
