Key financial details:

• The company owes £15.4 million to connected parties and £6.1 million to trade creditors for Orion Retail Limited.
• Approximately £6 million is owed to Zesta Ventures Limited.
• The administration trading period is expected to last until mid-May 2026.

Interpath Advisory was appointed as the administrator for Quiz Clothing in February 2026, following a series of challenging trading conditions that have plagued the company. According to CEO Sheraz Ramzan, “The board took the difficult decision to appoint administrators to Zandra Retail Limited in light of the continuing challenging trading conditions impacting the Group’s performance.” This statement underscores the ongoing struggles faced by Quiz Clothing amidst a competitive retail environment.

The company’s financial woes are reflected not only in its substantial debt but also in its operational decisions; at the point of administration, it made 109 redundancies at its Glasgow head office and distribution centre. In addition, a stock clearance sale commenced immediately across all stores after the administration announcement, highlighting efforts to manage inventory amidst financial distress.

Sources indicate that no offers have been received for Quiz Clothing’s business on a going concern basis as of this moment. This uncertainty raises questions about the future viability of the brand and its ability to continue operations beyond the administration period.

Founded in Glasgow, Quiz Clothing has been a fixture on the UK high street for 33 years. However, it now faces an uncertain future as officials evaluate options regarding its 40 stores, including 11 located in Scotland. A decision regarding their fate is expected within days; however, the exact timeline for potential store closures remains unclear.

The post Quiz clothing administration news appeared first on DG News Sport.

This grill, available exclusively for Lidl Plus members, allows customers to make reservations from April 23 to April 26, with pickups scheduled between April 30 and May 4. The timing—aligned with spring demand spikes—suggests Lidl is targeting households actively upgrading outdoor living setups ahead of summer peak usage.

The grill features a thermo-regulating ceramic shell designed to retain heat more efficiently than standard steel models. Additionally, it includes an internal thermometer, enabling cooks to monitor food temperatures in real-time. As noted in various sources, this product is designed for grilling, smoking, baking, and searing—offering versatility that appeals to a wide range of cooking enthusiasts.

Moreover, the grill boasts bamboo handles and side tables for food preparation, enhancing its usability during outdoor gatherings. Lidl’s entry into this segment reflects a strategic move to attract price-sensitive households seeking quality without the premium price tag typically associated with ceramic grills.

Interestingly, this is not Lidl’s first venture into the egg barbecue market; they previously launched a miniature version. However, this marks their first medium-sized grill offering—a development that could reshape consumer expectations regarding budget-friendly outdoor cooking appliances.

As consumers increasingly seek affordable options in high-quality grilling equipment, Lidl’s Medium Ceramic Egg Grill positions itself firmly within the value segment while still providing functionality typically associated with premium brands. This gap places Lidl in a favorable position as it continues to expand its product offerings.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term performance and customer reception of this new grill model. Observers will be closely monitoring how well it performs against competitors and whether it meets the expectations set by its pricing strategy.

The post Lidl Medium Ceramic Egg Grill Launches at £249 appeared first on DG News Sport.

The launch of these new chocolate treats comes at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking indulgent yet affordable snacks. The Choceur Freeze Me Bites, priced at £2.29 for a 140g pack, can be enjoyed straight from the cupboard or frozen for 30 minutes, making them a versatile option for chocolate lovers. Available in three enticing flavours—Chilla Vanilla, Double Chilly Choc, and Straw-brrrr-y—these bites are designed to cater to a variety of taste preferences.

In addition to the Freeze Me Bites, Aldi has also introduced the Choceur Chocolate Bars, priced at £1.79 for a 165g pack. These bars include innovative flavours such as the Movie Night chocolate bar, which features blonde chocolate with salted caramel, pretzel, and popcorn pieces, and the Cookie Dough chocolate bar, boasting a smooth milk crème filling with crunchy biscuit chunks. Both products are available in stores now, but shoppers are encouraged to act quickly, as they are only available while stocks last.

Aldi’s latest chocolate treats are positioned as impulse snacks at low price points, targeting a classic impulse zone within the store. This strategy is designed to convert quick visits into larger basket sizes, thereby increasing overall sales. “Aldi is set to shake up the confectionery aisle this spring with its latest must-try launch,” a spokesperson noted, highlighting the excitement surrounding these new products.

The introduction of these chocolate treats is not just about expanding Aldi’s product range; it is also a calculated move to compete with established branded confectionery. By offering unique flavours and appealing price points, Aldi aims to capture the attention of consumers who may typically gravitate towards more well-known brands. The launch is part of Aldi’s broader strategy to enhance its value proposition and solidify its position in the competitive grocery market.

As the launch progresses, industry experts suggest that if sell-through rates are high, Aldi may quickly reorder these products or introduce adjacent launches. This could compound traffic to their stores and keep the shelves feeling fresh and appealing to customers. “If sell-through is fast, expect quick re-orders or adjacent launches, which can compound traffic and keep shelves feeling fresh,” an industry analyst remarked, underscoring the potential impact of these new offerings on Aldi’s sales performance.

Currently, the market response to Aldi’s new chocolate treats remains to be seen, but the initial excitement suggests that these products could resonate well with consumers. The combination of innovative flavours, competitive pricing, and the convenience of impulse snacks positions Aldi to potentially capture a larger share of the confectionery market. As shoppers look for affordable indulgences, Aldi’s new chocolate treats may just hit the sweet spot.

The post Aldi New Chocolate Treats Shake Up the UK Confectionery Aisle appeared first on DG News Sport.

Aldi has announced that its store on Bridgnorth Road in Wollaston, UK, will cease trading on April 12, 2026, to facilitate a significant expansion project. The construction is set to begin the following day, April 13, and the store is expected to remain closed for at least six months, with plans to reopen in autumn 2026.

The expansion will extend onto a nearby green space known as The Dell, a move that has sparked considerable opposition from local residents. More than 200 residents signed a petition to save the open space, voicing concerns over the potential impact on their living conditions and public access to green areas.

Cllr Andrew Tromans confirmed the closure and construction plans, stating, “The Wollaston Aldi store will cease to trade next Sunday with construction works to commence the next day.” The local community has been particularly vocal about the implications of losing access to public open space, which they believe is essential for their quality of life.

The Planning Inspectorate granted permission for the extension despite the opposition, highlighting the balancing act between retail development and community needs. Inspector C Butcher noted, “The main issues are the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of local residents, with particular regard to access to public open space, and the effect of the proposed development on highway safety on Bridgnorth Road.”

In addition to the construction news, Aldi is preparing to celebrate its 50th birthday with the release of a reusable bag on April 15, 2026. The retailer is also introducing new spring products aimed at retirees, all priced at $20 or less, which includes a tea set collection featuring a blue floral toile motif.

As the community grapples with the impending changes, local leaders continue to advocate for residents’ concerns. Cllr Tromans remarked, “Your Stourbridge Lion Lib Dem team stood with local residents to try to prevent the loss of a green open space to the rear of Wollaston Aldi.” The situation remains dynamic as the community awaits further developments regarding the construction timeline and its impact.

The post Aldi to Close Wollaston Store for Expansion appeared first on DG News Sport.

The Priority program allows members to save up to £200 a month through various rewards, including the chance to claim a Greggs hot drink or savoury treat four times a month for just £1 each. This translates to a total monthly saving of £3.20 on these items for Priority members. Such promotions are not just about free food; they are a strategic move to enhance customer loyalty and engagement in a competitive market.

In the context of Greggs, this partnership comes at a time when the bakery chain is expanding its footprint in the UK. Recently, Greggs was included in a new retail park development in Newcastle, which is currently listed for sale at £3 million. This site is set to serve a housing development of 3,600 homes, indicating a significant investment in local food supply and community integration. According to Ben Harvey, a representative from the development team, “Greggs plays a big part in that, responding to people’s local needs as well as those who are passing on foot and by car.”

The collaboration between O2 and Greggs reflects a broader trend in which brands are increasingly looking to partner with each other to enhance customer experience. Matthew Roberts, operations manager at Jolene, acknowledged the comparison to Greggs, stating, “It’s all very positive. It’s really nice for people to be talking about us.” This sentiment echoes the growing recognition of Greggs as a staple in the UK food landscape.

As the promotion unfolds, it raises questions about how such partnerships will evolve in the future. Will other brands follow suit in offering similar rewards? The success of this initiative could set a precedent for future collaborations between food and service industries. The retail landscape is changing, and companies are looking for innovative ways to attract and retain customers.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term impact of this promotional strategy on customer retention for both O2 and Greggs. However, the immediate response has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers eager to take advantage of the free breakfast offerings. The initiative not only serves to boost sales but also to foster a sense of community among customers who share a love for Greggs’ products.

In conclusion, as O2 continues to roll out its Priority program, the partnership with Greggs serves as a case study in modern marketing strategies. By leveraging the popularity of a well-loved brand, O2 is not only enhancing its customer experience but also contributing to the local economy through its support of Greggs. The future of such collaborations looks promising, as both companies navigate the ever-changing landscape of consumer expectations and preferences.

The post Greggs: O2’s Priority Program Offers 50,000 Free Breakfast Baguettes appeared first on DG News Sport.

The upcoming Easter holiday in 2026 will see significant changes to Tesco’s store operations, particularly affecting large supermarkets across the UK. Most notably, Tesco’s large stores will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, due to existing trading laws that mandate such closures in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

In contrast, Tesco’s smaller Express stores will maintain their operations on Easter Sunday, opening from 7 AM and closing at 11 PM. This decision allows customers to access essential goods despite the restrictions placed on larger outlets.

Additionally, Tesco’s large stores will have adjusted hours on Easter Monday, April 6, 2026, opening at 8:00 AM and closing earlier than usual at 6:00 PM. This change reflects Tesco’s commitment to balancing customer needs with compliance to local laws.

Customers are encouraged to verify the opening times of their local stores online, ensuring they are informed about any changes that may affect their shopping plans during the holiday period.

The decision to close large supermarkets on Easter Sunday aligns with a broader trend in the UK retail sector, where many large chains adhere to similar regulations. This practice has been in place for years, emphasizing the cultural significance of the holiday.

While the specifics of Tesco’s operations during Easter are now clear, the impact of these changes on customer shopping behavior remains to be seen. Will more shoppers turn to Express stores for their holiday needs, or will they adjust their plans to accommodate the closures of larger stores?

As the holiday approaches, Tesco’s management is likely to monitor customer feedback and sales data closely, which could inform future decisions regarding holiday hours.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to these hours as the date approaches, but customers should stay alert for updates from Tesco.

The post Tesco Announces Easter Opening Hours for 2026 appeared first on DG News Sport.

As Easter approaches, Tesco has confirmed its opening times for the holiday weekend in 2026, with significant changes for Good Friday and Easter Sunday across the UK. Notably, Tesco Superstores will operate on Good Friday and Easter Monday, albeit with reduced hours.

On Good Friday, Tesco Extra locations, such as the one on Park Road in Liverpool, will welcome customers from 7am until 10pm. However, the majority of large Tesco Superstores will close at 6pm on Easter Monday, aligning with the retailer’s holiday schedule.

In a notable deviation from the usual practice, all Liverpool Superstores will remain closed on Easter Sunday. This closure reflects the broader trend where large Tesco stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will not open their doors on this significant holiday.

While large Tesco Superstores will be shuttered on Easter Sunday, Tesco Express stores will provide some flexibility. These smaller outlets can open as early as 6am and close as late as 11pm, allowing customers to access essential items during the holiday.

The majority of large Tesco Express stores are expected to operate on Easter Monday, with opening hours set from 8am to 6pm. This is in line with the regulations that allow shops over 280 square metres to open on Sundays for six consecutive hours, specifically between 10am and 6pm.

Historically, Easter Sunday has been a day of rest for many large retailers in the UK, with restrictions in place that mandate closures on this day, as well as Christmas Day. This year, Tesco is adhering to those regulations, maintaining a commitment to the traditional observance of the holiday.

As customers plan their shopping around the Easter weekend, it is essential to note these specific hours to avoid any inconvenience. The adjustments in opening times reflect Tesco’s ongoing efforts to balance customer needs with holiday observances.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to these hours as the holiday approaches, but the current schedule provides a clear framework for shoppers looking to navigate their Easter plans effectively.

The post Tesco Opening Times for Easter 2026: Key Details Revealed appeared first on DG News Sport.

“At Icon Foods, we’re all about shaking things up with innovative food solutions and iconic confectionery that brings a familiar tingle to every taste bud,” stated the company in a previous promotional effort. However, this sentiment now contrasts sharply with the reality facing the UK chocolate brand, which has officially entered voluntary liquidation as of March 2, 2026.

The joint administrators, Steven Edwards and Mark Holborow from Crowe LLP, have been appointed to oversee the liquidation process, which is classified as a Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation (CVL). This development highlights the mounting pressures on suppliers within the UK retail environment, a sector that has seen several retailers struggling in recent months.

Founded in 2022, Icon Foods was a rebranding of enjoy-i, which had been operating since 2010. The company quickly made a name for itself in the confectionery market, marketing a diverse range of products including truffle bars, milk chocolate-orange bars, and Mixed Chocolate Doy Packs to major retailers such as Tesco, Aldi, and Asda. The brand also emphasized its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, appealing to a growing consumer base that values responsible production practices.

Despite its innovative approach and strong product offerings, Icon Foods’ journey has been fraught with challenges. The UK high street has faced a rough start in 2026, with numerous retailers entering administration, including significant job cuts at Tesco and closures of pubs by various chains. This turbulent retail landscape has undoubtedly contributed to the strain on suppliers like Icon Foods.

The liquidation of Icon Foods was recorded in the London Gazette, marking a significant moment in the ongoing struggles of the UK chocolate brand. As the company navigates this difficult transition, the specific reasons for its liquidation remain unclear, and details regarding the total scale of its outstanding liabilities are not confirmed.

In light of the current economic pressures, the future of smaller suppliers in the UK retail market appears increasingly precarious. As noted by industry observers, “If HMRC or creditor pressure continues… Icon Foods and other smaller suppliers may more often opt for CVLs and administrator appointments.” This statement underscores the broader implications of Icon Foods’ situation for the confectionery sector.

As the liquidation process unfolds, the impact on retailer contracts and the availability of Icon Foods’ products remains uncertain. The company had established a presence in various retail outlets, including Iceland, Morrisons Daily, WH Smith, Home Bargains, Co-op, and Spar, but the disruption caused by its liquidation could affect consumers and retailers alike. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific retailer contracts that will be disrupted in the medium term.

The post UK Chocolate Brand Icon Foods Enters Liquidation appeared first on DG News Sport.

In a significant development for shoppers, Primark has announced that all its stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will close for over 24 hours on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026. This closure is mandated by the Sunday Trading Act 1994, which restricts large shops from opening on this holiday. Only Primark stores in Scotland will remain open during this period.

The closure will take effect at 10 PM on the Saturday evening before Easter Sunday, with stores not reopening until Easter Monday morning. Primark operates more than 190 stores across the UK, including 160 located in England, making this closure impactful for many customers planning their holiday shopping.

The Sunday Trading Act 1994, which limits the opening hours of larger retail establishments, has been a topic of discussion since its inception. Under this legislation, shops over 280 square meters are restricted from opening on Easter Sunday, which includes the majority of Primark’s locations. This law aims to provide a day of rest for workers and families, but it also affects consumer access to retail services during a busy holiday period.

In addition to the Easter closure, Primark is expanding its clothing repairs service in collaboration with The Seam. This initiative will be available at three stores: Manchester Market Street, Bromley, and Edinburgh Princes Street. The repairs service will operate every Friday until June 5, 2026, reflecting Primark’s commitment to sustainability and customer service.

Since 2021, Primark has delivered more than 730 free repair workshops across nine markets, indicating a growing demand for accessible clothing repair solutions. Vicki Swain, Product Longevity Lead at Primark, noted, “Last year’s trial in Manchester shows there is demand from high street shoppers for a more simple and accessible solution to fixing their favourite pieces.” This initiative aligns with a broader trend in the retail industry towards sustainability and responsible consumption.

Layla Sargent, CEO of The Seam, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We’re delighted to be partnering with Primark to make clothing repair more accessible for customers.” This collaboration aims to provide customers with practical options for maintaining their clothing, thereby extending the lifespan of garments and reducing waste.

As the Easter holiday approaches, shoppers are encouraged to plan accordingly, keeping in mind the temporary closure of Primark stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The announcement has prompted various reactions, with some expressing disappointment over the inconvenience, while others acknowledge the importance of adhering to the Sunday Trading Act.

Overall, the closure of Primark stores on Easter Sunday highlights the ongoing balance between consumer access and legislative regulations in the retail sector. As Primark continues to adapt to changing consumer needs and sustainability goals, the impact of such closures will be closely monitored by both shoppers and industry analysts alike.

The post Primark Stores to Close on Easter Sunday Across the UK appeared first on DG News Sport.

The John Lewis Partnership has announced that it will distribute an annual bonus to its employees, known as partners, for the first time in four years. This bonus, amounting to 2% of salaries, reflects a significant shift in the company’s financial landscape and is a response to improved performance metrics.

For the year ending January 31, the total bonus payment will reach approximately £35 million. This decision comes after the company faced substantial challenges during the Covid pandemic, which led to a pre-tax loss of £21 million, a stark contrast to the £97 million profit reported the previous year. Despite these setbacks, profits before tax have risen by 6% to £134 million, and sales increased by 5% to £13.4 billion.

Jason Tarry, the Chief Executive of the John Lewis Partnership, expressed gratitude for the dedication of the partners, stating, “I’m really grateful for the commitment and passion our Partners bring and, alongside our continued investment in Partner pay, we’re pleased to be in a position to award a 2% Partnership Bonus.” This bonus is equivalent to about one extra week of pay for employees, marking a positive development in employee compensation.

The company had not paid a bonus in four out of the previous five years, primarily due to losses incurred during the pandemic. Historically, the bonus peaked at 24% of salary in the 1980s but has since dropped to single digits in recent years. The recent announcement signals a cautious recovery as the company navigates a challenging macroeconomic environment.

In addition to the bonus, the John Lewis Partnership is investing £800 million across its stores as part of a long-term investment strategy. This includes the closure of 16 department stores and at least 20 Waitrose outlets as part of its turnaround plan. Tarry noted, “Our multi-year plan to invest in customers and our brands for the long term is working; we have grown customer numbers and achieved record satisfaction.”

Despite these positive indicators, the company remains cautious about its outlook for trading. Tarry acknowledged the subdued market conditions and the challenges leading into the crucial peak period, stating, “Despite a subdued market, a challenging lead into the crucial peak period and increased taxes, we took the decision to continue investing in the business, and have delivered cash and profit growth.”

As the John Lewis Partnership moves forward, the implications of this bonus and the ongoing investment strategy will be closely monitored. The company’s ability to sustain this momentum amid economic uncertainties will be crucial for its future performance. Details remain unconfirmed regarding further developments in the company’s financial strategies and employee compensation plans.

The post John lewis staff bonus appeared first on DG News Sport.