British luxury department store chain owned by Frasers Group
A round-up of 2026 beauty advent calendars shows a crowded market where value meets luxury. Independent, Guardian, and New York Post reviews highlight calendars from Charlotte Tilbury, Selfridges, Sephora, John Lewis, Liberty London, Lookfantastic, and Avant Skincare, with price points from under £100 to over £1,000 and values exceeding their cost.
Harvey Nichols has been put up for sale and is undergoing a turnaround led by Frasers Group. The six-storefront estate, including Edinburgh’s flagship, will continue operating while a broader restructuring is pursued, with potential integration of Flannels and the wider Frasers luxury ecosystem.
Scottish Water executives have received substantial performance payments amid rising household bills and ongoing sewage concerns. Critics say payouts undermine public trust as the government grapples with wage and bonus controls in the sector.
Frasers founder has warned the high street could be "further devastated" without major business-rate cuts, criticizing the Prime Minister's approach while Downing Street promises action to back British business. The exchange highlights a broader push to reform rates for pubs, clubs and live venues as part of a wider cost-of-living agenda.
Frasers has built its Hugo Boss holding to about 47.9% and says it aims to exceed 50% of shares and voting rights. The move follows Harvey Nichols acquisition and a failed bid to take Hugo Boss private. The group says there is no certainty it will achieve the majority and it is reviewing support for Hugo Boss chair Stephan Sturm.
Beauty retailers are rolling out advent calendars for 2026, featuring luxury and budget options. LookFantastic, M&S, Boots, and Boots’ fragrance line unveil calendars with full-size products, elite brands, and online exclusives. The range includes premium, mid-range, and affordable options, with clear savings versus listed values.
Frasers has appointed Michael Murray, its chief executive and son-in-law of founder Mike Ashley, to Hugo Boss’s chairmanship as the luxury brand tightens its ties with the conglomerate. Sturm will step down, having announced an orderly transition, while Frasers seeks majority control after lifting its Hugo Boss stake to nearly 48%.
The John Lewis Partnership has reported a pre-tax loss of £124m for the six months to August 1, widening from £88m the previous year, while Waitrose sales rise and department stores dip. The group cites a challenging trading environment, transformation costs, and higher national insurance as key factors, with caution on the second half ahead of peak Christmas trading.