UK grocery inflation has risen again as supermarket competition intensifies. Worldpanel figures show Lidl overtaking Morrisons, continued online growth, and increased purchasing of emergency household supplies.

Watches of Switzerland has lifted guidance after stronger first-half trading. Revenue reached £974m, supported by growth in Britain, the United States, and luxury jewellery sales.

British retail spending grew modestly during October amid weaker demand. Food sales remained positive, while discretionary purchases slowed as shoppers anticipated Black Friday and Christmas promotions.

Barratt Redrow completed fewer homes amid weaker private buyer demand. Completions declined 12.1% during the first 17 weeks of its financial year, although stronger private rental sector activity helped support reservations and the forward order book.

Smiths News has detailed investment plans for national distribution expansion. Its programme could require £27m in investment and add approximately £375m in annual revenue from new publisher contracts, with transition costs affecting near-term profitability.

UK services businesses reported faster growth alongside renewed inflation pressures. October’s purchasing managers’ index reached an eight-month high, with new orders improving and employment returning to growth.

Sequoia Capital is shutting its London office amid organisational changes. The US venture investor is consolidating its investment teams, ending two founder programmes, and continuing European investment activity from California.

Ministers have formally intervened in Sky’s proposed acquisition of ITV. Competition and media regulators must report by 27 January 2027, examining news plurality, editorial independence, and the availability of broadcasting and streaming content.

Subway plans significant expansion of restaurants inside British Asda stores. An expanded partnership could deliver up to 70 additional locations over four years, increasing the sandwich chain’s existing supermarket presence by more than half.

INEOS has completed a deal protecting skilled chemical manufacturing jobs. Its acquisition of Vynova Runcorn assets safeguards approximately 75 positions and preserves Britain’s only ethylene dichloride production facility.