Consumer and Retail in the News – Issue 281

This week's top stories in the Consumer and Retail sector:

TW Viewpoint:

The retail sector continues to embrace the anti-plastic revolution. Waitrose has announced that traditional plastic bags will be replaced by a home compostable alternative. Meanwhile, Carlsberg has abandoned plastic rings in favour of new "Snap Packs", which will use glue to bond beer cans together. With consumer scrutiny of plastic use at an all-time high and the UK government promising to eliminate unnecessary plastic waste by 2042, the incentive for retailers to invest in plastic alternative solutions is only going to increase.

Anger mounts over House of Fraser gift cards
(The BBC)

Co-op boasts best growth since 2011 throughout summer
(Retail Gazette)

Waitrose to replace plastic bags with compostable bags made from starch
(The Guardian)

Primark boss recruited by Boohoo.com in return for a $50m pay out
(The Business of Fashion)

Poundland steps up expansion plans with acquisition of 20 former Poundworld stores
(Retail Gazette)

Retailer Orla Kiely ceases trading
(The BBC)

Carlsberg to reduce the use of plastic to package products by abandoning plastic rings
(The Telegraph)

Tesco's discount store 'Jacks' opens to long queues and an overflowing car park amidst heavy rain and winds
(The Guardian)