Top 7 retail stories from around the world
Print16 April 2025
1. Supermarket parcel locker launch
UK shoppers can anticipate new parcel locker options as Sainsbury announced a recent partnership with Royal Mail to install them in stores nationwide.
This collaboration makes Sainsbury’s the first major supermarket to join Royal Mail’s expanding locker network. Currently available at six locations, the lockers will soon support both parcel drop-off and collection services, according to Sainsbury’s.
2. Knix expands to luxury retail
Canadian brand Knix has launched at six of Holt Renfrew’s stores across Canada, including locations in Yorkdale, Square One, Calgary, and Ogilvy in Montreal.
Fashion Network reports that the collaboration brings a curated selection of Knix products to Holt Renfrew stores, with temporary pop-up locations in Toronto and Vancouver available until late May.
3. Bubble tea sales surge
Gong Cha, a Taiwanese bubble tea brand, reached $600 million in global sales last year due to rapid international expansion, according to Retail News Asia.
The brand opened 240 new stores and entered five new markets, increasing its total presence to over 2,160 locations in 28 countries. Retail News Asia additionally reported that CEO Paul Reynish attributed this success to investments in tech and supply chain upgrades.
4. Retailer Casa confronts financial crisis
The Dutch branch of Belgian interior retailer Casa is facing bankruptcy after a filing by union AVV and the works council, citing unpaid wages and a lack of improvement.
Dutch News reports that Casa’s 18 Dutch stores, employing 115 people, have struggled with delays and IT issues since the parent company’s bankruptcy in early March. With continued operational delays, the future of Casa in the Netherlands reportedly remains uncertain.
5. New Aldi community grant program
Aldi Ireland has announced its 2025 Community Grants Programme, offering €500 gift cards to local charities and organisations throughout the country, according to Checkout.
Staff from Aldi’s 163 stores, distribution centres, and offices will vote on the recipients, continuing a programme that has donated over €785,000 since 2016.
It is reported that the initiative will support a diverse range of causes, including disability services and mental health groups, with Aldi expressing pride in supporting grassroots efforts making a local impact.
6. Tariffs hit oil producers
Global Banking & Finance Review highlights that Spanish olive oil producers are facing challenges due to U.S.-imposed tariffs, impacting a major global supplier.
The report notes that companies like Dcoop are considering long-term solutions, such as investing in U.S. infrastructure, to mitigate the effects of future trade barriers.
The GB & FR allege some exporters are urgently accelerating shipments to the U.S. in anticipation of potential tariff increases, reflecting the industry’s rapid response to changing trade dynamics.
7. Shoppers protest retailer policies
Forbes outlines that major companies like Amazon, Target, and Tesla are experiencing increasing consumer boycotts related to their political and social stances, including changes to diversity initiatives.
According to Forbes, these protests, driven by organizations like The People’s Union USA, are influencing consumer spending habits and potentially creating opportunities for smaller businesses.
© 2025, ShelfLife by Isaira Alvarez
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