Consumer and Retail in the News – Issue 293

TW Viewpoint
As might be expected, the information emerging following Black Friday and ramping up of the Christmas trading period suggests that ongoing political uncertainty may be affecting consumer confidence in addition to other challenges eg minimum wage increases, apprenticeship levy and business rates reform. Unsurprisingly, a number of retailers, such as the one in this article, have taken the initiative to focus on other factors in the retail relationship, such as the importance of brand value points such as demonstrating concern for the environment, "clever" tech use, and improving the customer experience, such as streamlining waiting time and simplifying payment procedures and adapting their practices accordingly.

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