Posts by category: Business

JPMorgan says Brent crude could surge as high as $130 if Middle East tensions explode, but keeps its main forecast anchored in the low-to-mid $60s for the next two years. The risk of supply shocks looms, though global oil supply and demand should keep prices in check for now.

Carpetright's Leicester store at Abbey Retail Park has closed after the chain entered administration. A mix of plummeting consumer spending, sluggish home sales, and a cyber attack toppled the retailer. Tapi Carpets bought 54 stores, securing 308 jobs, but 1,018 roles are lost as 218 stores, including Leicester, shut their doors.

Spring Airlines is stirring debate in the aviation world by suggesting standing room-only sections to pack 40% more passengers into planes and cut ticket prices. While hoping to ease travel during busy Chinese holidays, regulators and travelers are wary about safety and comfort.

Amritsar's Future Tycoons programme, now in its third edition, is wrapping up after a rigorous selection and workshop phase. Led by DC Sakshi Sawhney, the programme mentored 300 shortlisted business models out of over 1,500 registered participants and featured inclusive initiatives for hearing-impaired students.

Big UK supermarkets like Tesco, Aldi, and Sainsbury's set special Easter 2025 opening hours, with most closing on Easter Sunday and reduced store times across the bank holiday weekend. Customers should check local times online due to regional differences.

Goodwill has shut down its GoodwillFinds online marketplace, citing low demand. The move highlights the difficulty traditional retail models face when transitioning online. While the ShopGoodwill auction site remains, the closure reflects a larger trend where retailers struggle to match the in-store experience digitally, revealing preferences for experiential shopping post-pandemic.

Primark CEO Paul Marchant has resigned abruptly following allegations of inappropriate behavior during a social event, leading to an external probe. He admitted to a lapse in judgment and apologized, prompting ABF to reaffirm its dedication to integrity and workplace respect. The exit caused ABF shares to dip before stabilizing, and Eoin Tonge steps in as interim leader.

WH Smith, a venerable British retail business with a history spanning over two centuries, is reportedly engaged in discreet discussions to sell its traditional high street operations. The company is evaluating this move as it seeks to intensify its focus on its flourishing travel retail segment, which now contributes the lion's share to its profitability. The historic decision involves over 500 high street shops, underscoring a major transformation for the iconic brand.