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As of December 2025, UK and US retailers report mixed financial results amid subdued consumer confidence and economic uncertainty. Watches of Switzerland benefits from tariff relief and strong US demand, while Frasers Group faces UK sales declines despite international growth. Walmart raises forecasts on strong e-commerce and affluent shoppers. Target and home improvement chains report sales challenges, prompting investments and cautious outlooks.
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US employment increased by 119,000 jobs in September, exceeding forecasts, but underlying weaknesses persist. Rising layoffs, hiring decoupling, and economic risks continue to shape the labor market outlook as analysts debate AI's impact and recession signals.
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Jamie Oliver plans to reopen his Jamie’s Italian restaurant in Leicester Square next spring, partnering with Brava Hospitality Group. The brand, which collapsed in 2019, will relaunch amid industry challenges like rising costs and shifting consumer habits. Oliver emphasizes quality sourcing and staff training for the revival.
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Recent studies reveal Instacart charges different prices for the same grocery items at the same stores, with variations up to 23%. The practice, linked to algorithmic testing, raises concerns over transparency and fairness in online grocery shopping, impacting consumer budgets amid rising food costs.
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GameStop is shutting down 400 stores across the US in January 2026, continuing a long-term decline driven by the shift to digital gaming. The retailer has closed nearly 600 stores in the past year and plans to close international locations, reflecting the ongoing decline of physical game sales.
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Most government offices, courts, and banks are closed on New Year’s Day 2026. Major retailers like Walmart, Target, Macy’s, Kohl’s, CVS, and Walgreens are open with modified hours. Grocery chains such as Albertsons, Whole Foods, and Kroger are also open, while Trader Joe’s and Costco are closed. Check local store hours before visiting.
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BTS revealed plans for a new album releasing on March 20 and a global tour from April 2026 to March 2027. The tour includes over 70 dates across multiple continents, with UK shows scheduled for July. The group completed mandatory military service in South Korea, marking their return to music and live performances after a hiatus.
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Curtis International has added 330,000 Frigidaire minifridges to a recall due to fire risks. The fridges, sold at Target, have caused six fires and pose a burn hazard. Owners are urged to stop using them and request refunds via Curtis’s website. The total recalled units now reach nearly 1 million.
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Activist groups, unions, and celebrities are organizing a nationwide strike on January 30 to protest federal immigration enforcement following a fatal shooting by ICE officers in Minnesota. Thousands are expected to participate, demanding ICE leave the state and end federal funding. The strike includes marches and community solidarity actions.
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Federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis has led to protests, business closures, and economic disruptions. Many stores, hotels, and restaurants are affected as staff and customers stay home amid fears and protests targeting ICE operations. The situation has prompted legal and community responses.
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Target plans to open its 2,000th store later this month in North Carolina, with 30 new locations planned for 2026. CEO Michael Fiddelke is overhauling store layouts, product offerings, and staffing to reverse declining sales, focusing on groceries, curated experiences, and improved customer service.