UK workforce: rise in employment of over 50s in the retail sector

The Employers Forum on Age, which represents 245 companies across the UK, says a growing number of older people are coming out of retirement and entering the workforce. A new law being introduced in October bans discrimination on age. This not only has the potential to extend our working live and changes the future of retirement, it also challenges employers on how to manage their workforce.

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Unmanned fuel stations: Nordic countries lead disparate markets

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VAT rise: another damper on already cautious spenders

While the UK government's move to increase VAT to 20% in January 2011 will reduce volumes and add to inflationary pressures in retail, the effect will be minimal given that consumer spending habits are already changing, with shoppers being more cautious and value-conscious. As retailers pre-empt the VAT increase to prepare shoppers, Verdict expects to see prices rise in the latter half of 2010.

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Verdict on the credit crunch: home retailing

The current downturn in home-related retail began with the credit crisis fueling deterioration in consumer confidence, and wider market turmoil has only exacerbated concerns. Following the most torrid period for decades, the future will be no better. However, survivors will be in a stronger position, with fewer competitors.

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Wickes: a walk on the heavy side

Travis Perkins has reported a pick-up in sales at its Wickes heavy-side DIY chain for January, despite tough market conditions. Tight cost controls coupled with buying gains from parent Travis Perkins have enabled Wickes to increase its operating margin, leaving it well placed to capitalize when demand for DIY picks up.

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Wilkinson: good value for money

Wilkinson's results continue the trend of positive announcements from value-led retailers, with the economic downturn fostering an increased frugality among consumers. The demise of Woolworths has also presented a number of opportunities for general merchandisers, with the growing plethora of high street-based value-led propositions very much emerging as winners during the recession.

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Wolseley hit hard by building industry downturn

Third quarter results from Wolseley, the world's largest supplier of plumbing and heating products, has revealed continued weak trading, with pre-tax profits for the nine months to April 30 down 30% year-on-year. Wolseley's dependence on the highly cyclical building sector means that there is little that it can do to boost sales growth, while its huge debts make cost cutting the top priority.

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Woolworths' Masters Home Improvement aims to teach Bunnings a lesson

Competition between two of Australia's largest retailers, Woolworths and Wesfarmers, is set to focus on the DIY sector with the launch of Woolworths' big box chain Masters Home Improvement later this year. Woolworths' impact on the DIY market will depend on its ability to differentiate itself from market leader Bunnings, which has already adapted its strategy in preparation for the showdown.

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Wyevale: room to grow

Sir Tom Hunter and Baugur are leading a consortium to take over Wyevale Garden Centres in a deal that values the UK's largest garden retailer at GBP310 million. Despite a recent downturn in sales, the underlying prospects for the retailer are promising and the investment could drive further growth.

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Yukos: Russia set to invade Europe

While there are many bidders for BP's surplus German oil businesses, Yukos is one of the frontrunners to purchase the 650 service stations and 45% share in a refinery. Yukos has earmarked $2 billion towards improving its position in western European refining and retailing. Alongside fellow Russian firm Lukoil, Yukos is definitely a company to watch.

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