What: John Lewis Partnership appoints Helen Webb as chief people officer, bringing extensive HR leadership experience from major UK retailers.

Why it is important: The move underscores the importance of people strategy and partner engagement in sustaining John Lewis’s unique ownership model.

John Lewis Partnership has named Helen Webb as its new chief people officer, effective 24 November, marking a significant leadership transition for the retailer. Webb brings a wealth of HR experience from her previous roles at Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Co-op, and most recently as chief people officer at WH Smith. She succeeds Jo Rackham, who served as interim chief people officer for the past 18 months. Chairman Jason Tarry emphasised Webb’s role in shaping the partnership’s people strategy and nurturing its distinctive partner culture, which is central to the company’s employee-owned model. Webb expressed her commitment to fostering an environment where employees can thrive and feel a sense of belonging. This appointment comes as John Lewis prepares to recruit a record 13,700 temporary staff for the upcoming golden quarter, highlighting the ongoing importance of talent management and engagement. The move signals John Lewis’s continued investment in its people and its commitment to maintaining a strong, values-driven workplace culture.

IADS Notes: Helen Webb’s appointment as chief people officer at John Lewis Partnership reflects a broader trend of leadership transitions in retail, as seen in October 2024 with CEO changes at major retailers (Retail Gazette) and the January 2025 focus on trusted, experienced executives to restore confidence (Fortune). Her extensive HR background aligns with the sector’s emphasis on integrating diverse experience for strategic renewal, as demonstrated by recent hires at John Lewis and M&S in June and September 2025 (Drapers; Retail Week). The significance of HR leadership is further highlighted by Lotte Department Store’s transformation in August 2025 (The Chosun Daily) and the industry-wide move toward value-driven employment practices in May 2025 (The Retail Bulletin). John Lewis’s employee ownership model continues to set a benchmark for engagement and performance, a point reinforced by The Entertainer’s adoption of a similar structure in September 2025 (Retail Week) and ongoing discussions about trust and values in retail.

John Lewis names new chief people officer

What: Galeries Lafayette has blocked Shein’s entry into its SGM-affiliated stores, citing brand values and contractual obligations.

Why it is important: Galeries Lafayette’s stance highlights the risk of alienating premium brands and damaging long-standing retail relationships.

Galeries Lafayette’s firm opposition to Shein’s entry into its SGM-affiliated provincial stores marks a critical moment for the French retail sector, reflecting the heightened sensitivity around brand image and the preservation of long-standing industry relationships. The group’s leadership, under Nicolas Houzé, swiftly rejected the installation of Shein spaces, emphasizing that ultra-fast fashion is incompatible with the values and contractual standards of the Galeries Lafayette brand. This move comes amid a wave of criticism from French fashion federations, who argue that such partnerships threaten the creative and qualitative heritage of French retail. The controversy echoes recent industry turbulence, including the backlash and legal disputes surrounding Pimkie’s alliance with Shein, which led to Pimkie’s expulsion from retail associations. These events underscore the operational and governance challenges inherent in multi-brand retail networks, where franchisees and franchisors must navigate complex affiliations and safeguard their reputations. Ultimately, Galeries Lafayette’s decision signals a broader industry pushback against ultra-fast fashion’s disruptive influence and a renewed commitment to protecting premium brand relationships.

IADS Notes: The dispute between Galeries Lafayette and SGM over Shein’s entry into affiliated department stores is emblematic of the broader tensions shaping the French retail landscape. Shein’s push for permanent physical spaces, as reported in October 2025 (“Shein to launch first permanent physical stores in French department stores”, Fashion Network), has ignited controversy not only due to its ultra-fast fashion model but also because of the reputational and regulatory risks it brings, including a €40 million fine for deceptive pricing in July 2025 (“Shein fined €40m for deceptive pricing in France”, Fashion Network). The backlash from industry federations mirrors the legal and reputational turmoil seen in the Pimkie-Shein partnership in September 2025 (“Pimkie and Shein Partnership: Mulliez family announces legal action”, Le Figaro; “Pimkie expelled from French retail associations”, Fashion Network), which resulted in Pimkie’s expulsion from retail associations and underscored the sector’s resistance to alliances with controversial e-commerce giants. These developments highlight the operational and contractual complexities faced by department store networks, as illustrated by the April 2025 indictment of a Galeries Lafayette franchisee partner (“Galeries Lafayette’s franchisee partner indicted for misuse of corporate assets”, Fashion Network), and raise concerns about the potential erosion of relationships with premium brands that underpin the value and image of iconic French retail institutions.

Galeries Lafayette Group wants to block Shein’s entry into its SGM-affiliated stores

What: Freiburg’s Fashion & Food Festival boosted downtown foot traffic and retail engagement through collaborative city and retailer initiatives.

Why it is important: The festival’s success demonstrates how experiential events and extended hours can increase customer engagement and support downtown retail.

Freiburg’s Fashion & Food Festival transformed the city centre into a lively stage for fashion, food, and community engagement, drawing large crowds despite challenging weather. Organised by Gemeinsam Freiburg e.V. and the city’s economic and tourism agency, the event showcased the power of partnership between local government and retailers. Over two days, more than 40 fashion shows, culinary offerings, and interactive activities—from magic shows to guided tours—invigorated the city’s retail landscape. Breuninger, a key department store, played a prominent role with curated runway presentations, in-store entertainment, and extended opening hours, underscoring the importance of experiential retail in attracting visitors and increasing dwell time. The festival’s collaborative approach not only enhanced the city’s appeal but also demonstrated how coordinated efforts can drive foot traffic and energise local commerce. This model of partnership and event-driven engagement is increasingly vital for urban retail, as it fosters a sense of community and positions the city centre as a destination for both shopping and social experiences.

IADS Notes: Recent industry developments confirm the effectiveness of such collaborative and experiential strategies. In March 2025, US department stores were noted for abandoning downtown locations, but those investing in community engagement and mixed-use redevelopment are finding new relevance (The Robin Report, March 2025). Simon Property Group’s December 2024 results showed that experiential retail and local events significantly increased mall traffic (WWD, December 2024). Santa Monica’s March 2025 transformation into an entertainment hub (Los Angeles Times, March 2025), and Printemps’ focus on dwell time in New York (BoF, March 2025), further illustrate how experiential programming and extended hours can revitalise urban retail. Department stores that prioritise innovation and community-focused experiences, as highlighted in April 2025 (The Retail Bulletin, April 2025), continue to thrive in a changing retail landscape.

Breuninger’s Fashion & Food festival in Freiburg, a customer magnet

What: Magasin du Nord empowers customers to co-create beauty awards, blending in-store experiences and digital engagement to drive community and brand relevance.

Why it is important: Empowering customers as co-creators strengthens loyalty and authenticity, aligning with proven strategies for retail growth and differentiation.

Magasin du Nord’s “Chosen by Beauty Lovers” initiative marks a significant evolution in retail, positioning customers as active co-creators in the selection of beauty favorites. By integrating both in-store product experiences and digital voting, Magasin not only enhances engagement but also fosters a sense of ownership and community among its clientele. This approach is particularly timely as the Danish beauty market continues to grow, with consumer spending on beauty products rising sharply since 2019, and Magasin outperforming the broader market through its focus on niche categories and experiential retail. The initiative underscores a broader shift in retail, where authenticity, inspiration, and community are increasingly valued over traditional marketing and expert-driven curation. By celebrating customer choices in both physical and digital spaces, Magasin is redefining the relationship between retailer and consumer, making the shopping experience more meaningful and relevant. This strategy not only drives loyalty but also positions Magasin at the forefront of retail innovation, reflecting the industry’s move toward omni-channel, community-centric models.

IADS Notes: Magasin du Nord’s strategy is closely aligned with recent industry developments. In May 2025, leading retailers such as Selfridges and Nykaa demonstrated the power of community-driven engagement and experiential rewards in building loyalty (Fashion Network, May 2025). Magasin’s strong growth in 2024, driven by beauty investments and innovative formats, mirrors the global surge in beauty e-commerce and digital sales reported in April and March 2025 (Via Ritzau, April 2025; Journal du Net, April 2025; Forbes, March 2025). The importance of authenticity and community, highlighted in April and September 2025, is now a proven driver of customer loyalty and business performance (BoF, April 2025; Inside Retail, September 2025; Forbes, April 2025), while customer-driven events and immersive experiences, as seen at Breuninger and Manor, have become key tools for brand activation and differentiation (Lokal Büro, August 2025, June 2025).

Magasin du Nord launches a community-driven beauty award

What: The Mall Group’s AR Navigation and i-Reserved Parking services have earned top honors at the Asian Technology Excellence Awards 2025, setting a benchmark for tech-driven retail experiences.

Why it is important: The Mall Group’s recognition demonstrates how digital innovation is reshaping customer engagement and convenience in urban retail environments.

The Mall Group’s recent accolades at the Asian Technology Excellence Awards 2025 underscore its pioneering role in integrating advanced digital solutions within the retail sector. By implementing AR Navigation, the company has transformed the mall experience, making navigation intuitive and interactive for shoppers, while the i-Reserved Parking service leverages mobile technology to streamline parking, addressing a key pain point for urban consumers. These initiatives reflect a strategic commitment to enhancing convenience and engagement through technology, positioning The Mall Group as a leader in retail innovation. The recognition also signals a broader industry movement, as retailers increasingly adopt immersive and mobile platforms to meet evolving consumer expectations. This shift is particularly relevant in densely populated urban markets, where seamless digital-physical integration is becoming essential for differentiation and sustained customer loyalty. The Mall Group’s achievements set a new standard for how retail environments can leverage technology to create superior, future-ready shopping experiences.

IADS Notes: The Mall Group’s award-winning AR Navigation and i-Reserved Parking services exemplify the retail industry’s rapid embrace of immersive and mobile technologies. Research from April 2025 confirms AR’s positive impact on engagement, especially among Gen Z (Future Business Journal, April 2025). The December 2024 rollout of smart carts further highlights The Mall Group’s ongoing digital innovation (Retail Tech Innovation, December 2024). These developments mirror global trends, with leading brands integrating AR, VR, and mobile solutions to enhance customer experience, as seen in November 2024 (Vogue Business, November 2024). The evolution of smart stores (Journal du Net, January 2025) and the transformation of Singapore’s City Square Mall in April 2025 (Inside Retail, April 2025) further illustrate the growing importance of digital-physical integration and experiential design in maintaining retail relevance.

The Mall Group wins two major technology awards

What: Breuninger is expanding its retail media offering in the premium and luxury segment, leveraging exclusive first-party data and omnichannel strategies to drive targeted marketing and campaign performance.

Why it is important: This development reflects the retail industry’s shift toward data-driven, omnichannel marketing, as seen in recent sector-wide transformations.

Breuninger is intensifying its focus on retail media within the premium and luxury sector by expanding its portfolio across the entire marketing funnel, from branding to performance-driven solutions. Central to this evolution is the use of exclusive first-party data, collected through purchases, website visits, and loyalty programs, which enables precise and privacy-compliant targeting of high-value audiences. With over 2.6 million active customers and a robust online presence, Breuninger has become one of the most significant first-party data sources in the German-speaking luxury market. The company’s retail media strategy encompasses digital advertising, personalized newsletters, and in-store activations, including collaborations with brands like Polo Ralph Lauren and cross-industry partners. The introduction of a self-service platform in 2024 has empowered more than 180 brand partners to independently manage sponsored product ads, while a technological upgrade in 2025, in partnership with Topsort, further enhances campaign performance and data integration. The launch of Audience Ads, based on anonymized data from Breuninger’s Customer Data Platform, marks another step in delivering targeted, omnichannel marketing solutions.

IADS Notes: Breuninger’s retail media expansion is emblematic of broader industry trends observed throughout 2024 and 2025. The strategic use of first-party data and omnichannel integration mirrors the evolution seen in luxury groups like Capri Holdings (Inside Retail, March 2025). The rise of retail media as a core business model is highlighted by sector analyses (MBS, July 2025), while major retailers’ investments in media networks and data-driven marketing are documented in Retail Week (October 2024). Quick commerce platforms are accelerating this shift with real-time targeting capabilities (Journal du Net, September 2025). Breuninger’s digital transformation, completed in October 2024 (CIO), has positioned it at the forefront of these developments, blending technology, data, and experiential retail to drive growth and brand engagement.

Breuninger has launched new retail media formats and a self-service platform

What: Toy retailer The Entertainer has adopted an employee ownership model, appointing a John Lewis family member to chair its new staff trust.

Why it is important: This transition highlights the growing influence of employee ownership and trusted leadership in driving long-term sustainability and cultural transformation in retail.

The Entertainer’s move to an employee ownership model, with a John Lewis heir at the helm of its newly established staff trust, marks a pivotal moment in retail governance. This transition not only signals a commitment to empowering employees but also reflects a broader industry shift toward value-driven business models and innovative succession planning. By placing ownership in the hands of staff and entrusting leadership to a figure with deep roots in employee-owned retail, The Entertainer is positioning itself for greater resilience, engagement, and long-term success. This approach mirrors the strategies of other successful family-owned and employee-centric retailers, who have demonstrated that prioritizing staff welfare and cultural alignment can yield sustained business performance. As the sector faces ongoing challenges, such as evolving workforce expectations and the need for robust governance, The Entertainer’s decision underscores the importance of alternative ownership structures and trusted leadership in shaping the future of retail.

IADS Notes: The Entertainer’s transfer of ownership to staff, chaired by a John Lewis heir, reflects a growing trend in retail toward employee ownership and governance innovation. This shift echoes John Lewis Partnership’s March 2025 decision to prioritize staff pay over bonuses, reinforcing the importance of employee welfare in business sustainability (Financial Times, March 2025). The move also aligns with the broader industry focus on value-driven employment practices and cultural alignment, as highlighted by The Retail Bulletin in May 2025, where retailers emphasized the significance of shared values and engagement. Family-owned retailers like Boscov’s and Von Maur have demonstrated the long-term resilience and success of private and employee-centric ownership models (The Robin Report, May 2025). At the same time, the appointment of trusted leaders and heirs from prominent retail families, such as John Lewis, underscores the strategic importance of leadership transitions and succession planning, as discussed in Fortune, January 2025. These developments collectively illustrate how alternative ownership structures, strong leadership, and a focus on culture and values are shaping the future of retail governance and employee engagement.

John Lewis heir chairs newly created Trust as The Entertainer transfers ownership to staff

What: John Lewis opens its 2025 Christmas shop nationwide, introducing exclusive collaborations, new in-store experiences, and expanded festive offerings.

Why it is important: This launch demonstrates how leading retailers are extending the festive season and investing in exclusive partnerships and experiences to drive customer engagement and operational excellence.

John Lewis has launched its 2025 Christmas shop across all stores and online, unveiling a diverse range of festive products including themed decorations, advent calendars, and gifts. The retailer is emphasizing four main Christmas  themes and has introduced exclusive collaborations, such as a bauble collection with Sara Miller and decorations inspired by Netflix’s Stranger Things. Personalized offerings, including bespoke chocolates and gin, as well as a debut teddy bear repair service, highlight the brand’s focus on customization and experience. In-store activities, from fragrance workshops to tree decorating classes and musical entertainment, are designed to create a memorable and interactive shopping environment. Despite reporting a 4% increase in sales to £6.2bn and a 5% rise in revenue for the first half of 2025, John Lewis faces a widened operating loss of £38m. Leadership remains optimistic, with a focus on long-term strategy and confidence in a strong performance during the golden quarter, underscoring the retailer’s commitment to innovation and customer-centricity.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s early Christmas shop launch mirrors Macy’s “100 Days to Christmas” campaign (Retail Dive, September 2025), while its record recruitment drive and operational investments reflect a sector-wide focus on peak trading excellence (Retail Week, September 2025; Retail Gazette, October 2024). The retailer’s exclusive partnerships and experiential offerings build on a series of strategic collaborations and in-store innovations reported throughout 2025, including the Rejina Pyo collection (Drapers, July 2025), the Caffè Nero expansion (Drapers, December 2024), and the Jamie Oliver cookery school (The Retail Bulletin, May 2025). Despite deepening losses, John Lewis’s continued investment in store upgrades and digital infrastructure, as noted in September 2025 (Retail Week, Drapers), demonstrates a long-term commitment to customer experience and market relevance.

John Lewis opens Christmas shop nationwide

What: Galeries Lafayette has promoted Alexandre Liot to deputy CEO and Alix Morabito to director of offer and purchasing as part of a strategic leadership renewal.

Why it is important: Strengthening the executive team enables Galeries Lafayette to accelerate its investment, customer experience, and international ambitions.

Galeries Lafayette has announced significant changes to its executive committee, elevating Alexandre Liot to deputy CEO in charge of operations and appointing Alix Morabito as director of offer and purchasing. These moves follow the appointment of Arthur Lemoine as CEO in June and signal a renewed focus on operational excellence and strategic purchasing. Liot, a company veteran, will now oversee operations across the entire store network, building on his experience managing key locations and leading customer experience initiatives at the flagship Boulevard Haussmann store. Morabito, with a strong background in buying and merchandising, will shape the group’s offer and purchasing strategy, reporting directly to Lemoine. The appointments come as Galeries Lafayette invests heavily in both physical store refurbishments and digital channels, with €100 million dedicated to modernization over the next five years. The retailer is also expanding internationally, with new stores planned for Mumbai and New Delhi, while continuing to enhance its luxury and fashion positioning to attract both local and global customers.

IADS Notes: Galeries Lafayette’s leadership renewal, including the promotions of Liot and Morabito, builds on the July 2025 appointment of Arthur Lemoine as CEO, reflecting a careful balance between heritage and innovation (WWD, July 2025; Press Release, July 2025). This new executive structure supports the €400 million investment plan announced in November 2024 and detailed in February 2025 (Challenges, Nov 2024; Le Figaro, Feb 2025), which is modernizing the store network and flagship locations. The strategy is closely linked to the retailer’s international expansion, particularly in India (Challenges, Nov 2024; LSA Conso, Oct 2024), and its focus on customer experience and experiential retail, as evidenced by recent influencer partnerships and double-digit growth at the flagship (Fashion Network, Aug 2025 & July 2025). These developments position Galeries Lafayette as a leader in global retail transformation, blending tradition with forward-looking strategy.

Galeries Lafayette names Alexandre Liot Deputy CEO, Alix Morabito to lead Offer and Purchasing

What: Breuninger’s autumn/winter campaign launch with Monocle highlights the retailer’s focus on experiential storytelling and creative collaboration.

Why it is important: This campaign exemplifies how leading retailers are leveraging storytelling and partnerships to deepen customer engagement and differentiate their brands.

Breuninger’s autumn/winter campaign launch, celebrated at Monocle’s Seefeld headquarters, underscores the department store’s dedication to blending style with narrative as a core marketing strategy. The event, marked by speeches from CEO Holger Blecker and CBO Carsten Hendrich, as well as creative contributions from Monocle’s founder Tyler Brûlé and poet Anna Seidel, brought together guests for an evening of immersive storytelling and refined hospitality. This initiative reflects Breuninger’s broader commitment to experiential retail, where creative collaborations and curated experiences are used to foster deeper connections with customers. The campaign’s emphasis on craftsmanship, creativity, and partnership is in line with the retailer’s recent efforts to integrate cultural elements, hospitality, and digital innovation into its multi-channel approach. By prioritising memorable, multi-sensory events, Breuninger continues to set itself apart in the competitive department store landscape, reinforcing its brand identity and customer loyalty through meaningful engagement.

IADS Notes: Breuninger’s recent event with Monocle in Seefeld, celebrating the launch of its autumn/winter campaign, is emblematic of the retailer’s ongoing commitment to experiential and narrative-driven retail. This approach is consistent with the “Read my Style” event in Düsseldorf (August 2025, Lokal Büro), which merged fashion, literature, and urban culture to create a multi-sensory experience that deepened customer engagement. The curated collaboration with The Paradise Now (May 2025, Fashion Network) further demonstrated Breuninger’s focus on local partnerships and immersive brand experiences, while the opening of the Hamburg store (April 2025, Horston) highlighted the integration of hospitality and curated services as part of its omnichannel strategy. Breuninger’s transformation into a digital multi-channel retailer (October 2024, CIO) underscores the leadership’s role in driving innovation and customer-centricity across all platforms. The AMI Paris pop-up café in Munich (April 2025, Fashion United) exemplifies how hospitality, fashion, and local culture are blended to create unique, memorable moments for customers, reinforcing Breuninger’s position at the forefront of experiential retail.

Breuninger partnered with Monocle for an event in Zürich

What: John Lewis launches J. Lewis, a premium menswear own-label collection featuring high-quality European and Japanese fabrics, available online and in select stores.

Why it is important: The multi-channel and value-driven approach supports John Lewis’s ongoing transformation and strengthens its competitive edge in premium fashion.

John Lewis has introduced J. Lewis, a new premium menswear own-label collection that marks a significant step in the retailer’s fashion evolution. The 23-piece capsule, designed in-house and crafted from European and Japanese fabrics, is positioned as a contemporary addition to John Lewis’s expanding own-brand portfolio. Available both online and in 11 department stores, the collection features standout materials such as Italian yarns, Japanese denim, and Portuguese cotton, with a focus on natural fibers and exceptional craftsmanship. The range, priced between £35 and £400, is tailored to offer a sophisticated yet accessible wardrobe, reflecting a soft, seasonal palette. This launch is part of John Lewis’s broader strategy to elevate its fashion credentials, enhance customer experience through multi-channel availability, and reinforce its value proposition in the premium segment. By prioritizing quality, design, and accessibility, John Lewis aims to attract discerning customers and further differentiate itself in the competitive UK retail landscape.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s introduction of the J. Lewis menswear line builds on its recent strategic initiatives, including the Editions collection and exclusive collaborations like the PS Paul Smith capsule, which have driven growth in tailoring and reinforced the brand’s premium positioning (Fashion Network, May 2025; Drapers, April 2025). The multi-channel launch and considered pricing mirror successful approaches from earlier in 2025, while substantial investment and leadership vision continue to underpin the retailer’s ambition to expand its share of the UK’s premium fashion market (Drapers, July 2025; Retail Gazette, August 2025). These developments collectively highlight how John Lewis is leveraging innovation, craftsmanship, and omni-channel strategies to strengthen its competitive position.

John Lewis unveils new menswear own-label

What: Falabella consolidates its leadership in Colombia’s beauty sector with an immersive, omnichannel event featuring top global and emerging brands.

Why it is important: Falabella’s approach reflects the industry-wide shift toward experiential retail and digital integration, supporting sustained market leadership.

Falabella’s debut of The House of Beauty in Colombia marks a significant step in its strategy to lead the country’s beauty sector. By hosting an immersive event at Unicentro Bogotá, the retailer brought together over 14 renowned brands, offering exclusive launches, personalized services, and expert-led experiences that engaged customers beyond traditional shopping. This initiative was amplified across all channels—physical stores, digital platforms, and specialized media—demonstrating Falabella’s commitment to an omnichannel approach that deepens customer proximity and brand loyalty. The event builds on Falabella’s history of investing in the beauty and dermocosmetics category, leveraging both established luxury names and emerging brands to diversify its portfolio. With 26 stores in 11 Colombian cities and a record of strong financial performance, Falabella’s innovative campaigns and partnerships continue to set new standards in customer experience and retail leadership, positioning the company for further growth in 2025.

IADS Notes: Falabella’s immersive beauty event in Colombia is a direct extension of its $650 million investment plan for 2025 and its multi-specialist retail strategy, which contributed to 9.2% sales growth in the first half of 2025. The focus on experiential retail mirrors global trends and Falabella’s own successful campaigns, such as its experiential Mother’s Day and Christmas initiatives. The company’s integration of advanced e-commerce, logistics, and omnichannel strategies, alongside partnerships with leading and emerging brands, reinforces its leadership and ability to attract new customer segments.

Falabella introduces The House of Beauty in Colombia

What: Eléonore de Boysson, a former LVMH executive, becomes the first woman CEO of El Palacio de Hierro, succeeding Juan Carlos Escribano and leading 15 luxury department stores in Mexico.
Why it is important: De Boysson’s appointment signals a strategic shift for El Palacio de Hierro, leveraging international luxury experience to drive innovation, customer experience, and market leadership in Mexico.

El Palacio de Hierro has appointed Eléonore de Boysson as its new CEO, marking the first time a woman will lead the iconic Mexican department store group in its 135-year history. De Boysson, who brings over 25 years of experience from LVMH, Louis Vuitton, DFS/Samaritaine, Disneyland Paris, and BCG, succeeds Juan Carlos Escribano, whose decade-long tenure saw the company’s transformation into a leading luxury omnichannel retailer. Her arrival comes at a time of strong financial performance, with the group reporting double-digit revenue and profit growth, robust digital sales, and continued expansion of its luxury footprint. De Boysson is expected to focus on enhancing customer experience, consolidating omnichannel strategies, and embedding sustainability and social responsibility into operations. The leadership change reflects El Palacio de Hierro’s ambition to reinforce its position as Mexico’s premier luxury retailer and to align with global best practices in innovation and service.

IADS Notes: El Palacio de Hierro’s appointment of Eléonore de Boysson as CEO marks a historic leadership transition and a strategic move to reinforce its luxury positioning and international best practices. As reported by Press Release in May 2025, de Boysson brings extensive experience from LVMH, Disney, and Boston Consulting Group, becoming the first woman to lead the company in its 135-year history . Modaes in July, April, and February 2025, as well as Fashion Network in June 2025, highlighted the group’s robust financial performance, with double-digit revenue and profit growth, strong digital sales, and continued expansion of its luxury footprint . Modaes in September 2024 and January 2025, and Press Release in January 2025, detailed investments in flagship stores, next-generation POS, and omnichannel strategy, alongside partnerships with luxury groups like LVMH and OTB . Fashion Network in June 2025 and Press Release in May 2025 emphasized El Palacio de Hierro’s commitment to gender equality, social responsibility, and ESG, with the CEO appointment serving as a milestone for diversity in Mexican retail . Finally, Quién in February 2025 and Modaes in October 2024 described the company’s innovative marketing, exclusive brand partnerships, and expansion of luxury offerings, reinforcing its premium positioning in a growing market .

Eleonore de Boysson: a portrait

The Mall Group Chairwoman receives the highest Italian civilian award

What: Supaluck Umpujh, chairwoman of The Mall Group, has been awarded the Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy for her contributions to strengthening cultural and business ties between Italy and Thailand.

Why it is important: The award demonstrates how retail executives can serve as cultural ambassadors, using their platforms to foster bilateral ties and promote national heritage in the global marketplace.

Supaluck Umpujh, chairwoman of The Mall Group and The EM District, has been formally conferred the title of Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy by the Italian Republic. This prestigious honor recognizes her exceptional contributions to advancing bilateral relations between Italy and Thailand, particularly in the fields of art, culture, lifestyle, and design. The investiture ceremony, held at the Italian Embassy in Bangkok, celebrated Supaluck’s role in promoting Italian heritage and fostering creative exchanges through The Mall Group’s retail initiatives. The Order of the Star of Italy is one of the nation’s highest honors for foreign citizens who have demonstrated outstanding merit in strengthening international relations. Supaluck expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to furthering cultural and creative collaboration between the two countries. Her recognition underscores the growing role of retail leaders as cultural ambassadors and highlights the strategic importance of cross-border partnerships and cultural engagement in building brand reputation and international influence.

IADS Notes:

Supaluck Umpujh’s knighthood by the Italian Republic is the latest in a series of international recognitions that underscore her influence as a retail and cultural ambassador. As reported by Monocle in September 2025, her leadership has transformed The Mall Group into a model for Asian luxury retail, with a strong emphasis on cross-cultural exchange and international partnerships . The Bangkok Post in July 2025 and The Nation in August 2025 highlighted The Mall Group’s strategic collaborations in China and with UnionPay International, demonstrating how the group leverages cultural engagement to build brand reputation and foster bilateral ties . Supaluck’s multiple awards, including the Future Trends “Leader of Leader” award (March 2025) and ACES Woman Entrepreneur of the Year (November 2024), set a benchmark for industry leadership and innovation . Inside Retail in January 2025 and the Bangkok Post in April 2025 described how The Mall Group’s integration of art, design, and lifestyle into its retail spaces has redefined the customer experience in Thailand . Finally, Press Releases in October and September 2024 recognized Supaluck as one of Asia’s most influential women and honored her with the Her Awards, UNFPA Thailand 2024, for her impact on gender equality and retail leadership .

The Mall Group Chairwoman receives the highest Italian civilian award

What: John Lewis Partnership reported sales growth but swung to a loss due to regulatory costs, while investing heavily in store upgrades, expanding its fashion portfolio, and preparing for peak trading with major seasonal hiring and a renewed focus on staff compensation.

Why it is important: Chair Jason Tarry says they are taking the long term view. This highlights the critical balance between operational investment and cost pressures, reflecting how retailers are adapting compensation and recruitment strategies to sustain growth.

John Lewis Partnership’s first-half results reveal a business navigating the dual pressures of rising regulatory costs and the need for continued investment. Despite a 4% year-on-year sales increase to £6.2bn and a 2% rise at John Lewis stores, the group reported an operating loss of £38m, with pre-tax losses nearly tripling to £88m, largely due to the new EPR packaging levy and higher National Insurance contributions. The company absorbed a £29m EPR cost and made its largest investment since 2017, allocating £191m primarily to store maintenance and digital transformation, including cloud migration and major refurbishments. The retailer’s strategy also includes onboarding over 100 new fashion brands, such as Vivienne Westwood and Topshop, to strengthen its appeal and drive market share. Operationally, John Lewis is hiring 13,000 employees for the golden quarter and remains committed to reinstating staff bonuses, reflecting a broader shift in compensation strategy. Leadership remains confident that these investments and customer-focused initiatives will underpin a strong performance during the crucial peak trading period.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s experience reflects sector-wide challenges, with June 2025 reports noting £7 billion in new regulatory costs impacting UK retailers’ profitability. The company’s £800 million investment in store and digital transformation since October 2024 has supported its aggressive brand expansion, including 49 new fashion brands and exclusive collaborations by July 2025. Operational responses, such as the record seasonal recruitment drive and evolving compensation strategies, mirror broader industry shifts observed in June and July 2025, as retailers balance investment, workforce management, and cost pressures.

John Lewis Partnership chair is confident in the group's ability to bounce back during Q4

What: John Lewis continues its transformation strategy, emphasizing operational improvements and customer experience, despite reporting deeper financial losses.

Why it is important: John Lewis’s approach demonstrates how legacy retailers can pursue transformation and customer-centric strategies even amid financial setbacks, reflecting broader industry trends.

John Lewis’s latest results reveal a retailer determined to maintain positive momentum through a period of deepening financial losses. The company’s strategy centers on significant investment in store renovations, digital infrastructure, and operational efficiency, with £800 million committed to these initiatives. Under Peter Ruis’s leadership, John Lewis has revived its iconic price pledge and focused on enhancing customer service, blending its heritage with modern retail practices. This transformation has already yielded tangible results, such as overtaking M&S in customer satisfaction rankings and driving a notable increase in web traffic and in-store engagement. Despite missing profit targets during the critical festive season, the retailer has prioritized long-term sustainability, shifting employee compensation from annual bonuses to increased base pay, and investing in workforce development. These actions underscore the complexity of retail turnaround strategies, where resilience, innovation, and a relentless focus on customer experience are essential to navigating competitive pressures and evolving consumer expectations.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s journey over the past year has been marked by ambitious transformation efforts, including a major £800 million investment in store and digital upgrades in October 2024 and a strategic shift in employee compensation in March 2025. The company’s renewed focus on customer service and operational excellence, highlighted by its rise above M&S in customer satisfaction by July 2025, demonstrates the potential for legacy retailers to adapt and thrive even as they face significant financial and market challenges.

John Lewis focuses on positive momentum despite deepening losses

What: Despite higher sales and customer satisfaction, John Lewis Partnership reported a widened operating loss due to EPR packaging levy and National Insurance costs.

Why it is important: John Lewis’s experience reflects a broader industry challenge, where regulatory and cost pressures are forcing retailers to rethink growth and loyalty strategies.

John Lewis Partnership reported a 4% increase in sales to £6.2bn for the first half of 2025, with total revenue up 5% to £5.4bn. However, profitability was significantly impacted by the introduction of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) packaging levy and higher National Insurance contributions, resulting in an operating loss of £38m compared to a profit of £23m the previous year. The loss before tax and exceptional items reached £34m, with £29m attributed to the EPR levy alone. Despite these financial pressures, the retailer achieved its highest-ever customer satisfaction scores, a 4% increase in customer numbers, and a 13% rise in My John Lewis loyalty scheme registrations. The return of the Never Knowingly Undersold price match scheme in October 2024 helped boost sales and reinforce value perceptions. John Lewis also invested £30m in technology, financial services, and central teams, aiming to strengthen its market position. The partnership is optimistic about full-year profit growth, supported by record seasonal hiring and continued investment in customer experience.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s results mirror sector-wide challenges reported in June and July 2025, as UK retailers contend with billions in new regulatory costs, including packaging levies and National Insurance increases, which are reshaping profitability and expansion plans. The retailer’s focus on loyalty and customer engagement aligns with the shift seen at Selfridges and Harvey Nichols in May 2025, where experiential and personalized loyalty programs are now critical for sales and retention. Furthermore, John Lewis’s ongoing investment in technology and central teams reflects strategies adopted by H&M and Falabella, who have prioritized digital transformation and operational efficiency to drive growth in a demanding retail landscape.

John Lewis’ H1 revenue up 5%, but profits hit by EPR and National Insurance costs

What: Supaluck Umpujh, chairwoman of The Mall Group, reflects on four decades of leadership and innovation, highlighting how experiential retail, resilience, and values have shaped Thailand’s leading mall operator.

Why it is important: Supaluck Umpujh’s approach shows how integrating personal values, customer-centricity, and creative thinking can drive both business growth and industry transformation.

Supaluck Umpujh’s journey from aspiring pharmacist to chairwoman of The Mall Group exemplifies the power of visionary leadership and adaptability in retail. Despite initial setbacks and a lack of retail experience, she embraced her father’s lessons on reputation, resilience, and generosity, which became the foundation for her approach to business. Early failures taught her to innovate, leading to the creation of Thailand’s first retail-and-entertainment complexes, which redefined the country’s shopping landscape. Supaluck’s focus on place-making, customer experience, and thinking beyond conventional retail models has kept The Mall Group at the forefront of the industry, even as market conditions and consumer behaviors have shifted. Her story underscores the importance of values-driven leadership, creativity, and the willingness to see opportunity in adversity—principles that continue to guide the company’s growth and influence in Southeast Asia.

IADS Notes:

The evolution of The Mall Group under Supaluck Umpujh’s leadership is widely recognized across the Asian retail sector. As reported by the Bangkok Post in March 2025, the group’s digital transformation, experiential retail projects, and talent management have set new industry standards . Supaluck Umpujh’s recognition as one of Asia’s most influential women by Fortune in October 2024 and her Woman Entrepreneur of the Year award at ACES in November 2024 underscore her pivotal role in shaping Thailand’s retail landscape . At the Retail Leaders Circle Global Forum in February 2025, her Lifetime Achievement Award was attributed to her four decades of innovation and resilience in adapting to new market and tourism challenges . The Mall Group’s commitment to ethical leadership and community engagement is evident in initiatives like the M SMILING BOX project in January 2025 and Supaluck’s Her Awards, UNFPA Thailand 2024 in September 2024 . Inside Retail’s June 2025 analysis and The Nation’s coverage in December 2024 further illustrate how The Mall Group’s focus on cultural integration, digital innovation, and customer experience is redefining the Thai retail landscape .

How Supaluck Umpujh turned Bangkok’s malls into a model for Asian luxury retail

What: Yinka Ilori’s collaboration with Bloomingdale’s transforms the flagship store into an immersive, artist-led retail destination with exclusive product launches.

Why it is important: The project builds on the trend of transforming flagship stores into cultural destinations.

Yinka Ilori’s partnership with Bloomingdale’s brings a bold, imaginative transformation to the retailer’s 59th Street flagship, centering on a floral-themed takeover that extends from the windows and façade to the interior retail spaces. This collaboration, rooted in Ilori’s Nigerian heritage and inspired by the wildflowers of Central Park, infuses the store with vibrant color and playful design, inviting customers to engage with art and creativity at every turn. The “Cherish Your Magic” carousel pop-up exemplifies the experiential approach, featuring exclusive product collaborations across categories such as beauty, fashion, gaming, and homeware, including partnerships with Byredo, Augustinus Bader, and PlayStation. The initiative not only elevates the visual identity of Bloomingdale’s but also creates an environment that encourages play, imagination, and community engagement. By leveraging artist-led design and exclusive merchandise, Bloomingdale’s positions its flagship as a destination that transcends traditional retail, fostering deeper connections with customers through immersive storytelling and cultural resonance.

IADS Notes: Yinka Ilori’s collaboration with Bloomingdale’s exemplifies the retail industry’s shift toward experiential environments, echoing Selfridges’ artist-led window displays in May 2025 and the broader movement toward unconventional experiential retail highlighted in January 2025. The integration of exclusive, multi-category product collaborations mirrors innovative pop-up activations in Asia from February 2025 and the dynamic use of pop-up shops discussed in October 2024. The bold visual transformation of Bloomingdale’s flagship, reminiscent of Louis Vuitton’s dramatic NYC facade in December 2024, underscores how flagship locations are being reimagined as destinations blending commerce, culture, and community.

Artful takeover at the Bloomingdale’s flagship

What: John Lewis Partnership launches its largest-ever Christmas recruitment drive, hiring over 13,000 seasonal staff across stores and distribution centres to support peak trading.

Why it is important: This initiative reflects how leading retailers are leveraging flexible staffing, leadership transformation, and omnichannel investment to drive operational excellence and customer experience during critical trading periods.

John Lewis Partnership is embarking on its biggest seasonal recruitment campaign to date, aiming to hire 13,700 temporary staff for the golden quarter, including 11,500 in customer-facing roles and 2,200 in distribution and supply chain positions. This surge in hiring is designed to ensure exceptional service and operational efficiency during the crucial Christmas and Black Friday periods, when the retailer expects to welcome 30 million in-store visitors and handle 180 million website visits. The recruitment drive is part of a broader turnaround strategy led by chair Jason Tarry, which includes leadership changes, a renewed focus on core retail operations, and significant investment in both physical and digital infrastructure. By modernising its distribution centres and enhancing omnichannel capabilities, John Lewis is positioning itself to meet the demands of peak trading while maintaining its commitment to customer service and its “Never Knowingly Undersold” promise. This approach highlights the retailer’s adaptability and commitment to operational excellence in a highly competitive market.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s record seasonal hiring mirrors a wider industry trend, with El Corte Inglés and others also expanding flexible holiday staffing to support both sales and logistics (October, November 2024). The recruitment drive is closely tied to the Partnership’s turnaround, including leadership restructuring under Jason Tarry and the streamlining of staff committees to boost profitability and agility (October 2024, June 2025). Major investments in logistics and store renovations—£400 million and £800 million respectively—have strengthened John Lewis’s omnichannel capabilities, ensuring robust support for peak trading and enhancing the customer experience (October, November 2024).

John Lewis launches biggest-ever Christmas recruitment drive

What: John Lewis celebrates 100 years of its Never Knowingly Undersold promise with a new campaign and major brand and store investments.

Why it is important: This milestone demonstrates how heritage, strategic partnerships, and investment in experience can keep a legacy retailer relevant in a changing market.

John Lewis marks the centenary of its iconic Never Knowingly Undersold promise with a vibrant new campaign, including a 100-second film that celebrates a century of British life and retail innovation. The campaign, crafted by Saatchi & Saatchi and featuring a soundtrack by Mike Skinner, aims to reinforce the retailer’s enduring relevance and value proposition. Managing director Peter Ruis emphasizes the importance of staying true to the brand’s heritage while remaining competitive and forward-looking, especially as the department store format continues to evolve. Amid challenging economic conditions, John Lewis remains optimistic, positioning itself as a national retail leader across categories such as fashion, tech, and nursery. The centenary also coincides with the relaunch of Topshop and Topman in stores and online, reflecting a broader strategy of exclusive partnerships and assortment expansion. These initiatives are supported by an £800 million investment in store upgrades and the onboarding of over 100 new fashion brands, underscoring the retailer’s commitment to experience, innovation, and customer trust.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s centenary campaign is the culmination of a year marked by the strategic revival of its Never Knowingly Undersold pledge in September 2024, which drove a surge in customer engagement and sales. The retailer’s transformation includes exclusive designer collaborations, significant expansion of its brand portfolio, and a £800 million investment in modernizing stores and enhancing the customer experience. This multi-category approach, spanning fashion, home, and technology, demonstrates how John Lewis balances its heritage with innovation to remain a leader in British retail, as evidenced by its ongoing success in customer satisfaction and experiential retail throughout 2024 and 2025.

John Lewis celebrates 100 years of Never Knowingly Undersold

What: Level Shoes launches a dedicated U.S. e-commerce platform and plans a Miami flagship, marking its first major expansion outside the Middle East.

Why it is important: This expansion reflects Chalhoub Group’s global strategy and the increasing integration of digital and physical retail to meet evolving consumer expectations.

Level Shoes, the Dubai-based footwear retailer owned by Chalhoub Group, is making its first significant move outside the Middle East by launching a dedicated U.S. e-commerce platform and preparing to open a flagship store in Miami in 2027. This expansion follows the establishment of a logistics center in Florida, enabling timely delivery and operational excellence for American consumers. CEO Elisa Bruno emphasises that the U.S. is already Level Shoes’ fourth largest market by presence and spend, and the company’s five years of double-digit growth and robust data insights have informed this strategic entry. The brand is known for its curated mix of accessible, luxury, and emerging footwear brands, and plans to offer exclusive collaborations and localised marketing campaigns tailored to American shoppers. With a strong omnichannel approach, including an app, e-commerce, and active social media, Level Shoes aims to deliver a seamless customer experience. The Miami flagship is expected to leverage the city’s multicultural appeal and tourism, while the company continues to learn from and adapt to local consumer behaviors as it scales its U.S. presence.

IADS Notes: Level Shoes’ U.S. expansion is a direct extension of Chalhoub Group’s international roadmap, as articulated by Michael Chalhoub in May 2025, which prioritises digital transformation and global market integration. The move mirrors successful omnichannel strategies seen with Ounass in Dubai, where logistics and automation are central to retail efficiency. Additionally, Level Shoes’ focus on localised marketing and exclusive offerings aligns with the data-driven personalisation strategies adopted by Capri Holdings and the broader retail sector, as noted by BCG in late 2024 and early 2025.

Level Shoes launched U.S. website, plots Miami flagship for 2027

What: Magasin du Nord strengthens its portfolio by taking majority ownership of MessyWeekend, aiming to drive global expansion and Gen Z engagement.

Why it is important: The acquisition highlights how department stores are evolving into brand accelerators, combining investment with operational support to scale emerging brands.

Magasin du Nord’s majority acquisition of MessyWeekend marks a pivotal step in its transformation from a traditional department store into a dynamic brand accelerator. By securing a 60% stake in the Copenhagen-based eyewear brand, Magasin is reinforcing its strategy to nurture Danish brands with international ambitions, leveraging its retail expertise and infrastructure to unlock new growth opportunities. MessyWeekend’s rapid ascent, driven by a sharp design ethos and a strong Gen Z focus, has already resulted in significant wholesale agreements and a doubling of its global retail presence. The partnership is set to accelerate the brand’s international expansion, particularly in the wholesale channel, while also supporting its house of brands strategy and entry into new markets such as Asia. This move follows Magasin’s recent acquisitions of other Danish brands, reflecting a broader shift in retail where department stores are investing directly in promising labels to drive diversification, innovation, and sustained growth.

IADS Notes: Magasin du Nord’s strategy of acquiring and accelerating Danish brands, as seen in its investments in BLID Care, Relevant, and Bitte Kai Rand in February and July 2025, has been validated by strong financial results, including doubled profits and a DKK 3 billion turnover in 2024. The focus on Gen Z and personalized retail experiences aligns with trends identified in November 2024 and February 2025, confirming that brand portfolio development and digital engagement are now central to retail success.

Magasin du Nord now owns 60% of eyewear brand MessyWeekend

What: Topshop and Topman will launch in 32 John Lewis stores and online in 2026, with John Lewis becoming the exclusive UK stockist for Topshop footwear.

Why it is important: The move reflects John Lewis’s strategy to modernize its fashion offer and drive growth through brand curation and experiential retail, echoing its recent investments and leadership vision.

John Lewis’s decision to stock Topshop and Topman from February 2026 signals a major evolution in both brands’ retail strategies and the department store’s ongoing transformation. Topshop’s return to physical retail, following its acquisition by Heartland and Asos and its pivot to a wholesale model, aligns with broader industry trends where digital-native brands leverage partnerships to regain high street presence. John Lewis’s fashion ambitions are clear, with the addition of 49 new brands and a goal to double its £1.3bn fashion business, supported by significant investments in store renovations and experiential retail. The exclusive launch of Topshop footwear at John Lewis further strengthens the retailer’s appeal to younger and nostalgic shoppers, while reinforcing its reputation for quality and value. CEO Peter Ruis’s vision of making John Lewis “radically relevant” is realized through this high-profile collaboration, which is set to energize the retailer’s fashion offer and attract a new generation of customers. The partnership is a testament to the power of strategic brand curation and the enduring appeal of physical retail in a digital age.

IADS Notes: Topshop’s return to physical retail through wholesale partnerships, as reported in April 2025, reflects a broader industry shift toward balancing heritage with modern retail economics. John Lewis’s expansion of its fashion portfolio, highlighted in February and July 2025, and its £800 million investment in store transformation, underpin this strategy. CEO Peter Ruis’s focus on experiential retail and brand curation, articulated in October 2024, is central to the retailer’s ambition to remain relevant and competitive in the evolving department store sector.

John Lewis revealed as Topshop’s latest UK stockist