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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 sees robust US demand and tariff relief, 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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Several major retailers released financial updates, revealing resilience in some sectors and challenges in others. Walmart benefits from strong holiday sales, while Kingfisher and AO World raise profit forecasts amid cautious outlooks. Advertising firms face profit downgrades due to economic headwinds. The stories reflect ongoing shifts in consumer behavior and economic pressures.
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As of mid-October 2025, US tariffs continue to pressure retail sectors, prompting cautious price hikes and shifts in consumer behavior. Walmart reports strong sales but warns of rising inventory costs. Thrift stores see growth as shoppers seek value. UK retailers like Asda face tax-driven cost pressures amid weak consumer confidence. Delivery speed intensifies competition among US retailers.
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Recent federal funding cuts and rising grocery prices have increased food insecurity in the US. Food banks face greater demand, with volunteers and charities stepping up to fill the gap. Stories from Maine and Seattle highlight ongoing struggles for affordable, nutritious food as demand surges.
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Recent stories highlight Indonesia's food poisoning issues linked to a school lunch scheme, and the UK’s food allergy law improving safety for allergy sufferers. Meanwhile, new trends in baby and toddler diets, including carnivore diets, are gaining popularity despite health debates.
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Domino's rebrands with a patriotic color scheme, reflecting a shift away from woke themes. Long John Silver's updates its logo to highlight chicken, while Cracker Barrel's rebrand faces backlash and reverses course. These moves signal a broader trend of brands aligning with American identity amidst cultural debates.
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Amid rising economic and health challenges, small business owners and individuals are taking action. A Maine bakery owner offers free meals to those affected by SNAP cuts, while entrepreneurs in Chicago and Shanghai navigate supply chain issues. A woman in the UK shares her recovery from alcohol dependence, highlighting broader societal issues.
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Recent articles highlight shifts in grocery shopping habits: Amazon's new convenience store format in Arlington, US, and a US-based app offering cashback deals. Meanwhile, a travel writer reflects on Italy's community-focused, multi-stop shopping culture, revealing diverse consumer behaviors.
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As of late October 2025, Target announced plans to cut about 8% of its global corporate workforce, roughly 1,800 jobs, mainly at its Minneapolis headquarters. The restructuring aims to simplify management layers and accelerate decision-making amid stagnant sales and competitive pressures. The cuts exclude store employees and come as Target prepares for a leadership transition in February 2026.
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Leading companies including Microsoft, JPMorgan, Walmart, and Goldman Sachs are rapidly expanding their AI initiatives. They focus on in-house model development, workforce training, and integrating AI into operations, amid ongoing debates about job impacts and strategic advantages. The story highlights recent investments, partnerships, and workforce transformations as of November 2025.
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The US housing market shows signs of stagnation with record-low home turnover rates, rising mortgage rates, and declining homeownership. Fewer homes are changing hands, and buyer activity remains subdued amid economic uncertainty and high prices, impacting affordability and mobility.
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Despite low unemployment rates, many Americans face prolonged joblessness, with over a quarter unemployed for more than six months. Experts highlight emotional and economic tolls, as companies hesitate to hire amid economic uncertainty and layoffs increase. The situation signals a bifurcated labor market with lasting impacts.
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Target's Black Friday gift bags faced criticism for low-value items, with customers expressing disappointment over the lack of substantial swag. Meanwhile, other retailers like Lowe's offered more generous freebies, highlighting a competitive gap in holiday marketing strategies.
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Multiple Australian schools in the ACT and Brisbane have closed after asbestos traces were found in children's play sand products. The recalls involve products sold by retailers including Kmart, Target, and Officeworks. Authorities emphasize low airborne risk but prioritize safety, leading to widespread closures and investigations.
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Americans continue to favor side dishes over turkey for Thanksgiving, with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and sweet potatoes remaining top choices. Regional and generational preferences influence dish popularity, while grocery deals aim to ease holiday costs amid inflation. The cost of a full meal for 10 is estimated at $55.18.
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Economists warn of five key risks for 2026, including US growth, global manufacturing, political influence on the Fed, AI bubble burst, and rising debt issuance, amid ongoing economic uncertainty and shifting market dynamics.
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Multiple beauty brands, including Clarins, COSRX, Biodance, Lancome, and others, are offering significant discounts for Black Friday. The deals include skincare, haircare, and hair growth products, with discounts up to 48%. The sales encourage consumers to upgrade routines with online and early deals available today and through Cyber Monday.
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Jamie Oliver plans to reopen his Jamie’s Italian 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 his focus on quality sourcing and staff training for the revival.