British multinational drinks group; owner of Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff
S&P Global’s manufacturing PMI for Britain has fallen from the flash reading but remains above 50, signaling expansion in July. Output growth is the strongest since September 2024, while input costs have cooled. The data covers July 9-28 and follows a US-Iran truce breakdown and a Yemeni naval blockade that pushed oil above $100.
BP has reported a bumper quarter under new CEO Meg O’Neill, with underlying replacement cost profit surging and plans to sell its US Archaea biogas unit as part of a broader strategy to simplify the portfolio and boost shareholder value.
Harvey Nichols has been put up for sale after successive losses and is drawing bids from Frasers Group and Next as owners seek £50m–£60m; Mike Ashley has called the chain in a "death spiral" and says a lower price will be needed. Separately, UK high street restructuring plans have won court approval while retailers use AI to trace complex apparel supply chains.
Gen-X savers are confronting their sudden wealth with a mix of anxiety and pragmatism after a lifetime of cautious saving. An inheritance prompts rapid financial decisions, with many turning to local investment firms and life insurance, seeking structure to avoid overspending or regret.
Ralph Lauren has delivered better-than-expected earnings and revenue, pushing shares higher. CEO Patrice Louvet has steered the brand toward growth through brand elevation, new product lines, and a focus on full-price selling in key markets.
Au Vodka, the Swansea-based RTD vodka brand, is nearing a sale to Sazerac, the Kentucky-based owner of brands like Buffalo Trace and Fireball. Founders Charlie Morgan and Jackson Quinn are expected to net over £100m each, with a deal potentially valued up to £500m including future payments. Legal and advisory teams are said to be involved, and the move would expand Sazerac’s UK footprint amid industry turbulence.
Global markets have closed mixed as investors await Nvidia’s results and the Jackson Hole speeches, with oil pricing edging lower amid tensions over Iran and sanctions signals.
Police are investigating the theft of around 800 barrels of Guinness valued at about £205,000 from an industrial estate in Runcorn. Trailers connected to two HGVs were used, with both drivers yet to be identified. Dashcam footage and witness accounts are being sought to recover the barrels and complete the investigation.
A debate over England's new geographic indication status for whisky has sparked cross-border disputes among industry groups. English distillers argue the new rules allow site flexibility, while Scottish producers warn the change could damage the single-malt reputation. The government has defended the policy as a national development.