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Welcome to The Checkout by Kuro House, your daily dose of AI and retail insights. Today, we have some exciting updates from the world of supermarkets, beauty, and even houseplants. Let’s dive right in and see what’s new and noteworthy.
Tesco is reporting a strong first half of its financial year, boosting its profit outlook. According to Retail Bulletin, group like-for-like sales climbed 4.3%, with UK and Ireland sales up nearly 5% each. The supermarket launched over 470 new products and improved 560 others, showing a clear commitment to innovation. They also opened a semi-automated fresh food distribution centre in Aylesford and plan a new facility at London Gateway by 2029. Tesco now expects full-year adjusted operating profit between £2.9 billion and £3.1 billion, up from previous guidance.
Selfridges has unveiled its expanded beauty destination in Birmingham, creating the largest beauty hall outside London. The Retail Bulletin reports the space now spans 30,000 square feet and features 160 brands, including 30 exclusive to Birmingham. New counters include Victoria Beckham Beauty and Sol De Janeiro’s first UK counter, alongside a Beauty Workshop for niche brands. Coming soon is a flagship fragrance hall with 65 brands, plus a circular offering with refillable products from over 60 brands. Selfridges aims to offer 210 beauty services, from consultations to expert-led treatments, enhancing the customer experience.
Waitrose is doubling down on London with a multi-million pound investment in its stores. Retail Gazette shares that the grocer opened a new Little Waitrose in Wandsworth New Acres, part of a £1 billion expansion programme. Other London stores like Coulsdon and Crouch End will be relaunched by the end of the year, with more upgrades planned for 2026. Upgraded stores now feature new bakeries, improved produce sections, and enhanced meat and fish counters, plus self-service tills. Waitrose continues to invest nationwide, blending premium own-brand ranges with excellent customer service.
John Lewis has appointed Helen Webb OBE as its new chief people officer, effective this November. Retail Gazette reports Webb brings 30 years of leadership experience, including recent roles at WHSmith and the Co-op. She will focus on shaping people strategy, fostering the partnership’s unique culture, and driving talent development. Her appointment comes as Tesco executive Tom Denyard is set to join as managing director of Waitrose in January. This leadership shift signals a strong focus on people and culture in the retail giant’s future.
Patch, the plant delivery startup, has launched its first-ever TV ad aimed at young Londoners. Retail Times tells us the advert airs on Amazon Prime throughout October, showcasing Patch’s low-maintenance plants for busy city dwellers. With quirky characters like Susie the Snake Plant and Penny the Chinese Money Plant, the ad highlights ease and reliability. Patch boasts over 650,000 customers, a 4.8 out of 5 Trustpilot rating, and a strong social media following. This campaign aims to cement Patch as the go-to brand for hassle-free greenery in urban homes.
That’s a wrap for today’s update on retail innovation and leadership moves. It’s clear that from supermarkets to beauty halls and even houseplants, companies are investing heavily in customer experience and sustainability. Thanks for tuning in to The Checkout by Kuro House. Catch you tomorrow for more news you can use.
