British retailer group owned by employee trust, comprising John Lewis & Partners, Waitrose, and financial services.
The John Lewis Partnership has reported a pre-tax loss of 124 million for the six months to August 1, 2026, driven by higher costs and ongoing restructuring. Sales at Waitrose rose while department stores declined. The group remains in a turnaround plan that has seen store closures and job cuts, with leadership changes and a cautious outlook for the second half.
The Scotsman reports Fort Kinnaird plans a 42,500 sq ft expansion, creating over 60 local jobs, including a new 19,750 sq ft food store and 22,785 sq ft leisure space, with consent expected in November and construction due 2027. The Guardian covers John Lewis’s £20m Glasgow store revamp as part of a £50m programme across several cities, aiming to modernise the Buchanan Galleries and boost footfall while keeping shops open. France 24 details Shein’s exit from BHV Marais as SGM sells the landmark store to executives, marking strategic shifts in Parisian retail amid regulatory fines over the brand.
Dolly Parton has died at 80. In interviews from CNBC and Business Insider UK, she reflects on career-defining moments, including leaving Porter Wagoner's show, writing I Will Always Love You, and negotiating publishing rights. Her philosophy blends work, purpose and resilience as she faced health, age and business decisions.