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Welcome to The Checkout by Kuro House, your daily update on the latest moves in AI and retail. Today, we’ve got some exciting news from Tesco, Superdrug, Under Armour, and more. Let’s dive right into the stories shaping the future of retail and technology.
Tesco is ramping up its Express store footprint by acquiring five former Amazon Fresh locations. According to The Retail Bulletin, these sites in London’s Kensington High Street, Hounslow, Moorgate, Aldgate East, and Wembley will all reopen as Tesco Express stores before summer. The supermarket giant aims to open over 70 new Express shops by March 2027, building on last year’s 60 openings. They’re also expanding larger stores in Scotland and recently launched new superstores in Yorkshire. It’s a clear push to meet customers where they are with quality, value, and service.
Superdrug is making a big investment in physical retail with plans to open 30 new stores and create 600 jobs. The Retail Bulletin reports these new locations will be experience-led, blending beauty, healthcare, and affordable treatments under one roof. Stores will feature beauty studios and nurse-led healthcare clinics, aiming to be more than just traditional shops. Superdrug’s property director Clare Jennings says this expansion brings bigger, better stores and unlocks long-term career opportunities. It’s a smart move to meet customers’ growing demand for expertise and trusted services in welcoming community spaces.
Under Armour has revealed a widened loss outlook amid declining sales, highlighting challenges in the sportswear market. Retail Gazette shared that the brand posted a £110 million operating loss for the last quarter of 2025, with revenues down 5% year-on-year. North American sales dropped 10%, while international revenue was up 3%, showing some global resilience. The company is undergoing a costly restructuring plan, expected to total up to £187 million. CEO Kevin Plank remains optimistic, citing progress in product quality and brand momentum to stabilize the business.
Agentic AI is emerging as retail’s next major evolution, promising to fundamentally change how shopping works. Retail Gazette featured insights from AI expert Felix Hoffmann, who explains how this technology will augment the customer experience. Agentic AI is expected to be as transformative as ecommerce was, reshaping retail ecosystems rapidly. Retailers who embrace this shift early will likely stand out by offering smarter, more personalized shopping journeys. It’s a space to watch closely as 2026 unfolds.
London-based fashion brand Maksu just opened its second store on King’s Road, continuing its thoughtful expansion in the city. Retail Times reports the new store emphasizes calm, architectural design that highlights the clothes rather than overpowering them. The striking sculptural staircase guides customers through the space, turning shopping into an experience. Founder Mehmet Aksu says the brand aims to connect deeply with both global and local audiences through authentic design and culture. Plans are already underway to open two more locations in London, reflecting the city’s diversity and heritage.
So, as we’ve seen today, retail continues to evolve with strategic store growth, innovative tech, and immersive experiences. Whether through AI advancements or thoughtful store design, the focus remains on meeting customers’ needs in new and exciting ways. Thanks for tuning in to The Checkout by Kuro House. We’ll catch you tomorrow with more updates from the intersection of AI and retail.
