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-   -   Changes on the High Street (https://www.cableforum.uk/board/showthread.php?t=33705897)

Chris 03-12-2020 16:37
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36060797)
I just told it like it was. I'm not sure why you're bothering with my post in the way that you are.
Nice try, but last week you made a great big song and dance about John Lewis' virtual queueing system and now here you are bringing it up again. You posted it on a discussion forum ... so guess what's happening.

Sephiroth 03-12-2020 16:47
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chris (Post 36060807)
Nice try, but last week you made a great big song and dance about John Lewis' virtual queueing system and now here you are bringing it up again. You posted it on a discussion forum ... so guess what's happening.
... Yes, I stuck to my position and didn't book a slot. I then honestly reported what happened. You shouldn't be ridiculing me.

Chris 03-12-2020 17:20
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Ridicule? Now who’s the snowflake...

It’s certainly getting ridiculous now, but my initial response to you was simply to suggest your observations were unsurprising.

TheDaddy 03-12-2020 20:56
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mr K (Post 36060461)
Debenham has been coming for a long time. A store that has totally refused to move with the times. The stores still look like they did in 1978.....
Quote:
Originally Posted by mrmistoffelees (Post 36060473)
^^ Absolutely this. An appalling shopping experience, selling vastly overpriced goods. As you say a store that has stayed firmly stuck in the mud with little attempt to change or modernise. The demise has been long on the cards, well before Covid which as is many cases has simply accelerated the process.

I feel for the employees, but won't miss the store itself one bit.
You don't think it's got any thing to do with private equity getting their grubby paws on it, asset stripping and loading it with debt, they went from owning all their stores before they arrived to having to pay rent on them all once those vultures had picked it clean. I believe such shoddy practices have been legislated against as it can't be right thousands of people lose their jobs so a few people can be further enriched however given how these shysters like to get in with politicians how much teeth the legislation has remains to be seen.

1andrew1 04-12-2020 00:38
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheDaddy (Post 36060841)
You don't think it's got any thing to do with private equity getting their grubby paws on it, asset stripping and loading it with debt, they went from owning all their stores before they arrived to having to pay rent on them all once those vultures had picked it clean. I believe such shoddy practices have been legislated against as it can't be right thousands of people lose their jobs so a few people can be further enriched however given how these shysters like to get in with politicians how much teeth the legislation has remains to be seen.
I agree that private equity severely crippled the business helping its demise. But there's no legislation planned to stop a retailer selling its freeholds or being over-burdened with debt.

Selling off the freeholds is exactly what Kingfisher did with Woolworths before it demerged the company.

TheDaddy 04-12-2020 01:35
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36060869)
I agree that private equity severely crippled the business helping its demise. But there's no legislation planned to stop a retailer selling its freeholds or being over-burdened with debt.

Selling off the freeholds is exactly what Kingfisher did with Woolworths before it demerged the company.
I did mean there was legislation for their shoddy practices in general rather than that one in particular and I think the EU and US are going to be particularly hard on them in 2021 and it is long overdue

1andrew1 06-12-2020 01:29
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Some potentially good news.
Quote:
Frasers tycoon Mike Ashley swoops on Debenhams

Billionaire Mike Ashley is racing to seal a last-gasp rescue of Debenhams this weekend in a dramatic intervention that could save up to 12,000 jobs.

The Frasers Group tycoon has revived his interest in taking over the struggling department store chain at the eleventh hour. The move could save Debenhams from liquidation: the 242-year-old group had seemed set to disappear from the high street for good after JD Sports withdrew from the running to buy it from administrators last Tuesday.

Ashley’s group, which owns Sports Direct, and advisers to Debenhams are trying to thrash out a deal that could value the chain at more than £200m, depending on how much stock is left. Frasers would operate Debenhams’ 124 stores under 12-month licences.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/b...hams-k2gzlw2d0

BenMcr 06-12-2020 10:41
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36061136)
Based on what happened when he took over House of Fraser, I wouldn't hold out much hope.

https://www.manchestereveningnews.co...irect-17439200
Quote:
But inside, the cherished department store, once synonymous with sophistication, high-end brands and a top-notch customer service, looks like it's seen much better days.

1andrew1 06-12-2020 11:15
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by BenMcr (Post 36061140)
Based on what happened when he took over House of Fraser, I wouldn't hold out much hope.

https://www.manchestereveningnews.co...irect-17439200
That was a year ago. Since then, I believe that things have improved and upmarket brands have returned. Understandably, there has not been a comparable store review this year.

I believe Debenhams has a £400m online business so that should have a future, whatever happens to the stores.

Sephiroth 06-12-2020 18:55
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Reading House of Fraser is still very good.

1andrew1 24-01-2021 22:42
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36060479)
Debenhams (unlike Arcadia) had a fairly successful online business. I wouldn't be surprised if this is snapped up.
Quote:
Boohoo set to acquire Debenhams brand

Cut-price deal could result in closure of retail chain’s remaining department stores

Online fashion retailer Boohoo is set to acquire the Debenhams brand in a cut-price deal that will result in the closure of the group’s remaining department stores, according to two people with knowledge of the transaction.

They said that a transaction could be announced in the next few days.
https://www.ft.com/content/7782098d-...4-9e5484aa623c

heero_yuy 25-01-2021 10:44
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Looks like the deal is now done:

Quote:
Quote from The Sun Money: Online retailer Boohoo has bought the Debenhams website and brand in a deal that will shut all 118 remaining stores and cut 12,000 jobs.

As part of the £55million deal, the troubled department store will relaunch as an online-only operation from next year.

Debenhams announced its business would be wound down in December 2020, in a move affecting 124 shops and 12,000 jobs.

A few weeks ago, Debenhams then confirmed six stores, including its flagship Oxford Street shop, will permanently close.

The retailer's stores are currently shut due to lockdown rules, but shoppers can still purchase goods on its website.

Once Debenhams stores reopen after lockdown, the retailer will continue to clear stock in its shops while the website will be operated by Boohoo.

1andrew1 25-01-2021 11:27
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by heero_yuy (Post 36067979)
Looks like the deal is now done:
Yes.

Looks like ASOS will end up doing something similar with Arcadia (Top Shop, Top Man and Miss Selfridge) leading to all the outlets closing.
https://news.sky.com/story/asos-conf...rands-12198242

Sephiroth 25-01-2021 11:46
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
All this is well overdue. The gradual decline of the high street was a matter of human reaction to the web, especially magic that Amazon does with range and delivery.

I might be wrong, but human psychology suggests to me that some retail centre experience is required so as to allow people proper sight of obvious items such as furniture, lighting, kitchen machines etc. Probably also clothes. Which means there is a last-man-standing race that will prolly be won by M&S and John Lewis. They will also prolly provide concessions to various deserving retailers who will dismantle their store operations.

CV has just brought the demise of the high street to a swift procession. The landlords must be shitting themselves, especially if they're still paying for the shopping centre or whatever.

Oxford/Regent Street is another matter. It is a tourist's shopping magnet that seems to me to be doomed - Oxford Street more so than Regent Street. Loss of tourism brings problems for attractions, airlines, hotels and so on.

Politicians don't seem to me to be the right people to sort this out!

Paul 25-01-2021 21:24
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Off topic post removed.

heero_yuy 01-02-2021 10:53
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Quote from The Sun. Money: ASOS has bought Topshop, Topman and Miss Selfridge from Sir Philip Green's Arcadia Group in a deal that is expected to permanently close 70 shops.

It comes after Sir Philip Green's retail empire collapsed into administration in November following "severely impacted" sales.

ASOS is paying £295million for the brands plus leftover stock, with the takeover also including leisurewear range HIIT.

But the deal doesn't include the physical shops, which means 2,500 retail staff are at risk of redundancy.

ASOS has agreed to take on 300 people within the Arcadia Group business, including buyers and designers.

The websites for Topshop, Topman and Miss Selfridge will remain open until the deal is completed at the end of the week.

After this, each brand will move over to the ASOS website and customers trying to access these websites will be redirected to ASOS.
More brands move to exclusively on-line.

tweetiepooh 01-02-2021 11:07
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
But there is and should be a place for real retail space.

When you need that item now, not tomorrow.
When you need something to exactly match something else either by colour, size, measurement - e.g. you need a bolt to fit nut and you don't know much about the nut, colours can look different in different lights.
You need something to suit you - knives/pans for example - I want weight, balance etc to suit me so try them out get it right first time.
You want to discuss with "experts" and get what you need not just what you want.
You need things to fit you - shoes are good example - I have wider feet and a high instep so shoes can be hard to find that really fit well.
Sometimes it's nice to have the social aspect of physically going out - the actual shopping is only part of the experience - enjoying lunch/coffee out as well.

Sephiroth 01-02-2021 11:18
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by tweetiepooh (Post 36068938)
But there is and should be a place for real retail space.

When you need that item now, not tomorrow.
When you need something to exactly match something else either by colour, size, measurement - e.g. you need a bolt to fit nut and you don't know much about the nut, colours can look different in different lights.
You need something to suit you - knives/pans for example - I want weight, balance etc to suit me so try them out get it right first time.
You want to discuss with "experts" and get what you need not just what you want.
You need things to fit you - shoes are good example - I have wider feet and a high instep so shoes can be hard to find that really fit well.
Sometimes it's nice to have the social aspect of physically going out - the actual shopping is only part of the experience - enjoying lunch/coffee out as well.
Which, I suspect, M&S and John Lewis (plus possibly or two others like Wilko) are planning on a last man standing basis.

Imo, there will be a complete reorganisation of the high street. For example, convenience stores will continue, and they will serve converted accommodation. The likes of John Lewis could do what M&S have done - which is to incorporate Waitrose into their stores. Stuff like that.

tweetiepooh 01-02-2021 11:49
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
I still think we need the small independent traders. Those that know the local area, know local product where relevant, can do the value add they need to to differentiate. So I may still get a PC made by local shop even if it costs a bit more as I know where to go if something goes wrong or I need advice.
I still want to go to a real archery shop where I can try stuff out on their range before I buy it and make sure I'm buying the right stuff for me.

I feel that what is needed now is for landlords and councils to reduce and even cancel rent/rates for some traders/retailers especially where they can't move on-line. Landlords could take advantage of closures to do work needed without disrupting business and still have hopefully good tenants.

John Lewis is a bit of an exception as they do have well trained (and via their bonus scheme, motivated) partners but other large stores often had less good staff and offered the same stuff as you get on-line cheaper - no value add. If you read Which? survey of retailers you can probably spot the ones that will survive at least among the nationals. Those that fit to "local independents" are harder but they are the ones I really want to carry on. (They don't normally fit the models of the large retail centres though.)

heero_yuy 01-02-2021 12:20
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by tweetiepooh (Post 36068943)
I still think we need the small independent traders. Those that know the local area, know local product where relevant, can do the value add they need to to differentiate.
I think you're right. The high street of the future is going to be less of a clone of every other high street but much more varied.

Hugh 01-02-2021 12:23
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by tweetiepooh (Post 36068943)
I still think we need the small independent traders. Those that know the local area, know local product where relevant, can do the value add they need to to differentiate. So I may still get a PC made by local shop even if it costs a bit more as I know where to go if something goes wrong or I need advice.
I still want to go to a real archery shop where I can try stuff out on their range before I buy it and make sure I'm buying the right stuff for me.

I feel that what is needed now is for landlords and councils to reduce and even cancel rent/rates for some traders/retailers especially where they can't move on-line. Landlords could take advantage of closures to do work needed without disrupting business and still have hopefully good tenants.

John Lewis is a bit of an exception as they do have well trained (and via their bonus scheme, motivated) partners but other large stores often had less good staff and offered the same stuff as you get on-line cheaper - no value add. If you read Which? survey of retailers you can probably spot the ones that will survive at least among the nationals. Those that fit to "local independents" are harder but they are the ones I really want to carry on. (They don't normally fit the models of the large retail centres though.)
Challenge for the retailers is that they need a critical mass of customers to keep the business going; unfortunately, a lot of people will use the on-site shops to look at stuff, then shop online for better prices.

denphone 01-02-2021 12:27
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by heero_yuy (Post 36068949)
I think you're right. The high street of the future is going to be less of a clone of every other high street but much more varied.
Like it was in the old days when there were a lot more independent shops.

Maggy 01-02-2021 12:39
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
I'm supporting my local 2 independent butchers, the bakers and the fruit and veg shop. I also support the oldest independent bookshop in the area plus the independent hardware store. All just a 10 minute walk from my house. Use them or lose them.

Sephiroth 01-02-2021 12:43
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by tweetiepooh (Post 36068943)
I still think we need the small independent traders. Those that know the local area, know local product where relevant, can do the value add they need to to differentiate. So I may still get a PC made by local shop even if it costs a bit more as I know where to go if something goes wrong or I need advice.
I still want to go to a real archery shop where I can try stuff out on their range before I buy it and make sure I'm buying the right stuff for me.

I feel that what is needed now is for landlords and councils to reduce and even cancel rent/rates for some traders/retailers especially where they can't move on-line. Landlords could take advantage of closures to do work needed without disrupting business and still have hopefully good tenants.

John Lewis is a bit of an exception as they do have well trained (and via their bonus scheme, motivated) partners but other large stores often had less good staff and offered the same stuff as you get on-line cheaper - no value add. If you read Which? survey of retailers you can probably spot the ones that will survive at least among the nationals. Those that fit to "local independents" are harder but they are the ones I really want to carry on. (They don't normally fit the models of the large retail centres though.)
The small independent traders, many of who will survive, of course, will rise from the ashes.

There will be a sea change in landlord takings and business rates (I hope) so that we can pretty much start again in that area of commerce.

So, we are in complete agreement.

Hom3r 01-02-2021 13:03
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Maggy (Post 36068954)
I'm supporting my local 2 independent butchers, the bakers and the fruit and veg shop. I also support the oldest independent bookshop in the area plus the independent hardware store. All just a 10-minute walk from my house. Use them or lose them.

All my local supermarkets had an in-store fresh Fish, meat and cheese counters but have been closed since coronavirus lockdowns, but Sainsbury's said they are unlikely going to open them when lockdown ends.

tweetiepooh 01-02-2021 13:06
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Hugh (Post 36068950)
Challenge for the retailers is that they need a critical mass of customers to keep the business going; unfortunately, a lot of people will use the on-site shops to look at stuff, then shop online for better prices.
Good retailers like the archery shops I know keep customers because the customers want to keep the shops going. They are rare enough that if you make the journey you tend to spend your money. And in this market you can possibly but a little cheaper online and there maybe more options online but the difference for the cheaper items is small and for more expensive items you want the support of the shop.
Again it's value add - so, for example, if you switch from some Korean limbs to Hoyt (or reverse) do you know you likely need a new string even on the same size/weight because of minor differences in the limb horn. (I had some strings made that just coincidently work on both).
For arrows it's even more important to visit and buy from a store as (apart from basic/beginners) you get arrows cut to your length, weighted and spined to your bow and draw weight, once cut they need to be fitted to correct pile (point) and so on. Then you get to try them out to make sure it's all working OK and get you bow adjusted to new arrows. (I use wooden arrows so make my own at home from parts supplied, the options are less critical so I can order on-line and that's fine - those who are more demanding will go to store and select shafts one-by-one, checking straightness, grain similarities, spine characteristics etc. Again not something you can do on-line.

heero_yuy 11-03-2021 10:58
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Quote from The Sun Money: John Lewis has warned it will shut more stores forever after posting a £517million loss for last year.

The group, which also owns upmarket grocery chain Waitrose, said it does not expect all its John Lewis shops to reopen at the end of lockdown.

It did not say how many of its 42 shops are under threat, but said it was in talks with landlords and will make a final decision which ones would close at the end of March.

It has already closed eight stores last year, putting 1,300 jobs at risk, and The Sunday Times reported last month that another eight shops could be closed on top of this too.

John Lewis announced the news in its financial results for the year ending January 30 2021.

The shop said its £517m loss was mainly due to restructuring and redundancy costs from store closures, a shift to online shopping, and changes to head office operations.

John Lewis has had to remain closed under the third coronavirus lockdown, as it is classed as a non-essential business.
I guess the Waitrose part of the group is helping to prevent more closures. There's also talk of having JL departments in Waitrose stores.

Sephiroth 11-03-2021 11:55
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by heero_yuy (Post 36073877)
I guess the Waitrose part of the group is helping to prevent more closures. There's also talk of having JL departments in Waitrose stores.
Good luck with that!

That said, the Rushenden store has a large area near the Café devoted to certain JL lines, including TVs. A sort of Tesco Extra effort. Canary Wharf is another very large site selling JL stuff.

Most Waitrose stores are a lot smaller, usually not exceeding 30,000 square feet.

1andrew1 11-03-2021 12:03
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36073882)
Good luck with that!

That said, the Rushenden store has a large area near the Café devoted to certain JL lines, including TVs. A sort of Tesco Extra effort. Canary Wharf is another very large site selling JL stuff.

Most Waitrose stores are a lot smaller, usually not exceeding 30,000 square feet.
Canary Wharf like Kingston is actually the other way round - a John Lewis store with a Waitrose food hall in it.
Agreed on the size of Waitrose stores - most aren't very large so perhaps this will be a more overt click and collect?

BenMcr 11-03-2021 12:04
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36073882)
Most Waitrose stores are a lot smaller, usually not exceeding 30,000 square feet.
The one near my Dad has an aisle for non-food stuff. Honestly not paid much attention to it so not sure how they pick what to offer and whether they're directly from JL stock or specific to Waitrose.

heero_yuy 15-03-2021 18:59
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Quote from The Sun. Money: Chocolate shop Thorntons is shutting all of its stores because of the impact of coronavirus.

The retailer said it has been hit hard by the pandemic and has had to close during many of the busiest times of the shopping year.

All 61 Thorntons stores it owns will close putting 603 jobs at risk.

Thorntons has around 100 franchise stores that operate under the name but are run independently. They are not affected by the closures.

Thorntons stores have been shut because of lockdowns over the past year including during crucial shopping periods like Christmas and Easter.

Sales have surged online and the choc shop will continue to sell its sweet treats on its website thorntons.co.uk.

1andrew1 17-03-2021 16:29
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
This looks a good outcome.
Quote:
The Debenhams shop in Gloucester is to be transformed into lecture halls and training spaces for nurses and healthcare workers in the latest reinvention of a department store building as consumers switch to online shopping.
https://www.theguardian.com/business...-lecture-halls

TheDaddy 17-03-2021 17:18
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36074569)
How is that a good outcome? A good outcome would be a shop still open, trading and not laying of staff, they didn't lose their jobs so nurses could be trained

1andrew1 17-03-2021 17:32
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheDaddy (Post 36074579)
How is that a good outcome? A good outcome would be a shop still open, trading and not laying of staff, they didn't lose their jobs so nurses could be trained
I'm talking about an empty building being put to good use being a good outcome.

The nostalgic side of me would like Debenhams, Woolworths, Burton's, Virgin Megastore, Gadget Shop and Toys'R'Us to stiill be open. The realist in me sees a good outcome in the buildings being used constructively.

TheDaddy 17-03-2021 19:10
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36074580)
I'm talking about an empty building being put to good use being a good outcome.

The nostalgic side of me would like Debenhams, Woolworths, Burton's, Virgin Megastore, Gadget Shop and Toys'R'Us to stiill be open. The realist in me sees a good outcome in the buildings being used constructively.
A good outcome would have been to put in place practices to stop this happening again, not celebrating the fact a tenant has been found, especially as they'd have needed a building anyway

1andrew1 17-03-2021 19:26
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheDaddy (Post 36074584)
A good outcome would have been to put in place practices to stop this happening again, not celebrating the fact a tenant has been found, especially as they'd have needed a building anyway
Whilst the internet can't be uninvented, business rates certainly need reforming but I doubt this will stop other store closures.

Whilst I believe that Debenhams' private equity owners took too much money out of the business, many department stores have closed in recent years - Beale's, many House of Fraser branches, BHS and even branches of John Lewis. Debenhams leaving the high street has probably made it slightly easier for John Lewis and House of Fraser.

Carth 17-03-2021 19:37
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Not all bad news, thankfully we now have a lot more cars & vans on the roads spewing out harmful toxic fumes while delivering parcels.

They also get to take them back if they are the wrong colour, wrong size, wrong shape, have parts missing, are broken, or simply not known at this address :D

Hom3r 17-03-2021 19:50
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by heero_yuy (Post 36073877)
I guess the Waitrose part of the group is helping to prevent more closures. There's also talk of having JL departments in Waitrose stores.

No great hardship in the larger stores.


We had 2 standalone Argos stores, when Argos & Sainsbury's merged, the one in the shopping centre closed and moved into the corner of Sainsbury's.


The larger one which is in a retail Park is currently closed as per the law.

pip08456 17-03-2021 21:04
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Hom3r (Post 36074595)
No great hardship in the larger stores.


We had 2 standalone Argos stores, when Argos & Sainsbury's merged, the one in the shopping centre closed and moved into the corner of Sainsbury's.


The larger one which is in a retail Park is currently closed as per the law.
The law states online/phone/mail orders can be picked up. Argos/Sainsbury's obviously see the combined unit as being the best place for this.

heero_yuy 25-03-2021 12:23
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Quote from The Sun, Money: John Lewis plans to permanently shut eight more shops with 1,465 jobs at risk.

It comes after the retailer posted a £517million loss for last year due to the coronavirus crisis.

John Lewis first warned it'd shut more stores earlier this month - and it's now revealed which shops are affected.

The eight shops set to close are located in cities and towns including Ashford, Peterborough and York - you can check out the full list below.

John Lewis' remaining 34 shops in England will then reopen from April 12, subject to government guidance.

While its Glasgow store will open on April 26 and the Edinburgh one on May 14.
List of stores affected on link above.

Sephiroth 25-03-2021 12:46
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Shame about Peterborough. Now no more need to visit there when we're staying at our Rutland house.

Taf 25-03-2021 13:02
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Santander is also closing a lot of branches.

Mr K 25-03-2021 13:10
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36075267)
Shame about Peterborough. Now no more need to visit there when we're staying at our Rutland house.
Never were truer words spoken ;)

Hugh 25-03-2021 13:57
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36075267)
Shame about Peterborough. Now no more need to visit there when we're staying at our Rutland house.
Is it near Rutland Water?

Used to love running round there when I was on training courses at (what was) RAF North Luffenham* - and there were some lovely pubs in Stamford and Oakham.

*now St George’s Barracks

Sephiroth 25-03-2021 14:08
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Hugh (Post 36075281)
Is it near Rutland Water?

Used to love running round there when I was on training courses at (what was) RAF North Luffenham* - and there were some lovely pubs in Stamford and Oakham.

*now St George’s Barracks
* Was St George's Barracks - shortly to take 3,500 houses.

Our house overlooks Rutland Water (in winter only when the tree are bare).

RAF Cottesmore is now Kendrew Barracks.

Hugh 25-03-2021 14:20
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36075283)
* Was St George's Barracks - shortly to take 3,500 houses.

Our house overlooks Rutland Water (in winter only when the tree are bare).

RAF Cottesmore is now Kendrew Barracks.
Slightly jealous.

V. Pleased for you - lovely area.

Sephiroth 03-04-2021 17:29
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
It's Easter Saturday and I can't find an Easter Egg anywhere.

papa smurf 03-04-2021 17:34
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36076086)
It's Easter Saturday and I can't find an Easter Egg anywhere.
Surely Waitrose save one for you;)

Sephiroth 03-04-2021 17:50
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by papa smurf (Post 36076087)
Surely Waitrose save one for you;)
I forgot to order it. Picked up the luxury lamb joint today, though. I hope OB did OK at ALDI.

1andrew1 03-04-2021 18:17
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36076088)
I forgot to order it. Picked up the luxury lamb joint today, though. I hope OB did OK at ALDI.
Isn't he boycotting them as they're EU owned?
One of the Little Waitroses at Shell petrol stations may come to your aid for the Easter Egg.

papa smurf 03-04-2021 18:24
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36076088)
I forgot to order it. Picked up the luxury lamb joint today, though. I hope OB did OK at ALDI.
Luxury, someone's having you on, anyhoo lots of Easter products in Aldi.

Sephiroth 03-04-2021 19:36
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36076090)
Isn't he boycotting them as they're EU owned?
One of the Little Waitroses at Shell petrol stations may come to your aid for the Easter Egg.
Thanks for the suggestion, Andrew. I've now got to the "sod it" stage!

Paul 04-04-2021 04:39
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
You waited until now to look for one ?

Sephiroth 04-04-2021 11:53
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul (Post 36076122)
You waited until now to look for one ?
... to look for another one.

heero_yuy 20-05-2021 11:42
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Quote from The Sun: Tesco is preparing to scrap its Metro format and rebrand the 147 branches as either Express or Extra superstores.

Britain’s largest supermarket chain is making the changes due to declining sales at the Metro stores, which are sized between its convenience format Express and its full-size Extra stores.

The rebranding will take place over the summer, with 89 stores to become Tesco Express and the remaining 58 to be superstores.

The grocer began restructuring its Metro store estate in 2019 after sales declined amid tough competition from other retailers.

Staff were informed of the changes yesterday, and there will be no further redundancies on top of the 4,500 jobs cut when the restructure was launched.

No stores are expected to close as a result of the changes, and the sites will remain open as the new fascias are installed over the coming months.

Carth 20-05-2021 11:58
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Same shop, different coat :D

TimeLord2018 30-06-2021 23:02
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Gap to close all 81 stores in UK and Ireland and go Online-only
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-57670737

RichardCoulter 01-07-2021 01:25
Re: Changes on the High Street
 

I don't understand the Tesco announcement. If these mid sized stores are to be converted to the format of the smaller stores, they will physically remain the same size! How can they run them with fewer staff?

Perhaps they're going to block off some of the floor space, or even demolish part of them to reduce the floor space (which would reduce the business rates).

I remember when British Steel knocked some of their buildings down & Woolworths lopped off some of their upper floors to pay less rates.

papa smurf 01-07-2021 08:52
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Carth (Post 36080194)
Same shop, different coat :D
Different pricing as well,i have a tesco express near where i live, prices are much higher than the larger tesco extra store

1andrew1 01-07-2021 08:57
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by RichardCoulter (Post 36084942)
I don't understand the Tesco announcement. If these mid sized stores are to be converted to the format of the smaller stores, they will physically remain the same size!
The announcement does not say they will be run with fewer staff though I suspect they may take the opportunity to introduce more self service tills.

RichardCoulter 01-07-2021 10:13
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36084952)
The announcement does not say they will be run with fewer staff though I suspect they may take the opportunity to introduce more self service tills.
Thanks for the correction.

1701-e 01-07-2021 11:03
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by TimeLord2018 (Post 36084937)
Gap to close all 81 stores in UK and Ireland and go Online-only
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-57670737
Ironically then more gaps in the high street...... Gets coat

Sephiroth 01-07-2021 16:06
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1701-e (Post 36084972)
Ironically then more gaps in the high street...... Gets coat
Unintended pun?

mrmistoffelees 01-07-2021 16:15
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36085011)
Unintended pun?
The use of 'Gets coat' would suggest not.

1701-e 01-07-2021 17:02
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by mrmistoffelees (Post 36085012)
The use of 'Gets coat' would suggest not.
💯 Correct. Could not resist it

Sephiroth 09-07-2021 10:46
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Have you seen the crap John Lewis sale? "More of what you want" is the slogan; More of what you don't want is the reality.

On the Perspectives panel, they're assessing what people think about new slogans (to replace "Never knowingly undersold", which is the only one that matters. John Lewis is going all socially aware with their slogans.

The hypocrisy in this is sickening. They're only interested in profit - something I can at least respect. But you mustn't do that with a whole load of social guff that has nothing to do with the TV size or laptop reliability etc.
Look at this guff from https://www.johnlewispartnership.co....al-impact.html

Quote:
Our Founder established the Partnership to be a force for good in society. We are driven to make a difference to people’s lives and create positive social change. We strive for beneficial impact, using the skills and resources within the Partnership to support where help is needed.
It's one thing using some of the income from our pockets to spread some dosh to local charities (later in the quoted article), it's another to pretend that they are selling us stuff for social reasons.

Stephen 09-07-2021 11:02
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Whats your problem? Big company donates food and money to local charities?

That's a good thing.

Sephiroth 09-07-2021 11:13
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Stephen (Post 36085737)
Whats your problem? Big company donates food and money to local charities?

That's a good thing.
Yes, I implied that in my post.

It's the hypocritical pushing of their so-called social values when it is purely in the interests of pulling profit to which I object.

"Never knowingly undersold" is the only motto they need.

I've no objection to profit, nor contribution to their local communities.


1andrew1 09-07-2021 18:40
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36085738)
Yes, I implied that in my post.

It's the hypocritical pushing of their so-called social values when it is purely in the interests of pulling profit to which I object.

"Never knowingly undersold" is the only motto they need.

I've no objection to profit, nor contribution to their local communities.

They can't use that slogan as they can't beat internet sellers.

pip08456 09-07-2021 19:54
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1 (Post 36085764)
They can't use that slogan as they can't beat internet sellers.
Yes they can.

Quote:
If you do find the same product for sale at a lower price at a UK mainland high street competitor, either in store or online, and sold with the same service conditions, you can make a price match request. It’s really easy – just let us know in one of the following ways:
https://www.johnlewis.com/customer-s...ngly-undersold

1andrew1 10-07-2021 09:33
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by pip08456 (Post 36085776)
Here's why they're ditching the slogan.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-53881214

Hugh 10-07-2021 14:38
Re: Changes on the High Street
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sephiroth (Post 36085734)
Have you seen the crap John Lewis sale? "More of what you want" is the slogan; More of what you don't want is the reality.

On the Perspectives panel, they're assessing what people think about new slogans (to replace "Never knowingly undersold", which is the only one that matters. John Lewis is going all socially aware with their slogans.

The hypocrisy in this is sickening. They're only interested in profit - something I can at least respect. But you mustn't do that with a whole load of social guff that has nothing to do with the TV size or laptop reliability etc.
Look at this guff from https://www.johnlewispartnership.co....al-impact.html



It's one thing using some of the income from our pockets to spread some dosh to local charities (later in the quoted article), it's another to pretend that they are selling us stuff for social reasons.
Sorry, I have to disagree - profit is just part of their corporate objectives. If they were only interested in profit, they wouldn’t still be a partnership, they would have sold out to Venture Capitalists long ago.

You can disagree with how they do "social good", but they have always done it - in 1919 they set up a Staff Council and Charitable Donation Committee, and part of their Constitution has always been
Quote:
The Partnership aims to obey the spirit as well as the letter of the law and to contribute to the wellbeing of the communities where it operates.


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