German discounter, global chain and Aldi rival
Public Health France has recorded 5,764 excess deaths between 17 June and 2 July during an exceptional June heatwave, the highest heat-related excess mortality since 2003. France recorded 21,674 deaths against 15,910 expected; two-thirds of the excess were people aged 75 and older and more than half occurred between 25–27 June.
Andy Burnham is moving toward Westminster with plans to devolve power and shift growth to every postcode. Labour factions debate welfare, devolution and the economy as unions shape the policy landscape ahead of a potential premiership.
London’s Pride parade has drawn more than 35,000 marchers from 600 groups, with temperatures reaching 28C. Activists urge ongoing protection of LGBTQ+ rights as authorities warn of a zero-tolerance stance on hate crime. The event marks a push for greater trans healthcare access and safe spaces, while London unveils plans for WorldPride 2032.
Independent reports Aldi and Lidl are launching affordable ice cream makers on July 16, priced at £69.99, undercutting Ninja’s premium model. Aldi’s Ambiano uses “smoothify” technology; Lidl’s SilverCrest Freezy offers seven presets. Both are limited Specialbuys, with stock likely to vanish quickly. Competitors and other budget options are highlighted in IndyBest reviews.
Skyline Enterprise’s Swansea adventure destination on Kilvey Hill is moving into construction after planning approval and on-site works. The project includes a cable car, a cafe, a zipline, a sky swing and a visitor-focused eco plan. Local opposition fears wildlife loss; council expects economic and employment gains in the first 15 years.
The rising cost of ice cream in Britain has become a flashpoint between luxury indulgence and everyday treat. Prices for scoops and tubs vary widely, with premium parlours expanding while traditional ice-cream vans shrink. The sector has grown in the 2020s, yet operators face high fuel, insurance and maintenance costs.
Budget and premium ice makers are transforming how households cool drinks and desserts. Lidl’s Silvercrest slushy maker is now on shelves at £24.99, while Salter markets an affordable rival to Ninja’s slushi; meanwhile Cuisinart and Govee offer premium options for home use and smart control.
The CMA has provisionalised rules to stop big grocers from blocking rival stores. Aldi and Lidl are now included in the land-use restrictions, alongside Asda, Co-op, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose. Final decision expected in October.
Katie Taylor has reached the final fight of her celebrated career, aiming to become a three-time undisputed world champion against Flora Pili at Croke Park. A sell-out crowd of 80,000 is expected as Ireland celebrates a pioneer of women’s boxing.
Major brands and some supermarkets have shifted canned mackerel from Atlantic (true) mackerel to cheaper, MSC‑certified Chilean jack mackerel. Producers say sustainability and supply constraints drove the change; consumer groups and reviewers say the replacement has lower omega‑3, different taste and texture and risks "skimpflation." Retailers say the species is labelled and sourcing follows standards.
Independent and Reuters reports show UK food inflation remains elevated amid geopolitical disruption, drought and energy costs. Forecasts wait on official data; producers urge relief to ease rising bills for households.
Multiple sources show rising costs of university life and student support. Guardian highlights school food standards and holiday funding; Independent and Guardian analyze maintenance funding and loans amidst inflation; Business Insider reports on family impact of student-loan reforms. Readers are navigating cost pressures and policy responses.
To be determined
Aldi has defended its discount strategy, saying promotions must reflect real reductions to help customers budget. The retailer reports 5% sales growth to £19bn for 2025 while expanding store numbers and investment. Rival chains warn cost pressures persist as droughts highlight supply-chain vulnerabilities.