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The jobs crisis inside retail and hospitality is deepening. Younger workers are bearing the brunt. And as boards shrink and the Iran conflict escalates costs further, a new model of leadership is quietly emerging to fill the gap. Darren Whelpton-Smith March 27, 2026 | LinkedIn Article In March, I wrote about what I called the Perfect Storm facing UK retail — a confluence of geopolitical shocks, logistics disruption, and a casualty list of high street names that would have s

With deep roots at Adidas and Gymshark, Hannah Mercer brings a rare blend of global brand discipline and community-led retail thinking to one of the UK's most distinctive youth fashion businesses. When Footasylum confirmed the appointment of Hannah Mercer as its new chief executive in March 2026, it signalled something more than a routine leadership change. For a business that has spent the past three years proving it can grow profitably on its own terms — free of the shadow

Founders of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK often carry the weight of their entire business on their shoulders. They know every detail, juggle multiple roles, and make countless decisions daily. This hands-on approach is a strength, but it can also limit growth. When founders try to do everything themselves, they risk burnout and miss opportunities for strategic development. That’s where DWS Partners steps in with a different kind of support—fractional lea

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping retail and e-commerce worldwide, changing how businesses operate and how customers shop. For retail leaders, CEOs, founders, and directors, understanding AI adoption is essential to stay competitive and meet evolving consumer expectations. This article explores how AI is transforming the retail landscape globally and in the UK, highlights practical examples, and discusses key considerations, benefits, and challenges of integrating AI

The UK economy faces ongoing challenges, including inflation, labour shortages, and shifting business needs. Companies must adapt their workforce strategies to stay competitive and agile. One solution gaining traction is fractional work, which offers a flexible alternative to traditional permanent employment. This post compares fractional and permanent work, highlights key differences, and explores how fractional roles can help businesses navigate current economic conditions.

The UK retail landscape has kicked off 2026 with a mix of challenges and opportunities across all sectors. From fashion to FMCG and building materials, both physical stores and ecommerce channels are navigating a complex economic environment. Drawing insights from Retail Week, Drapers, and The Retail Bulletin, I’ll break down the current performance, highlight the winners, and explore how retailers can build resilience in this evolving market. Retail Sector Performance: Fashi

Growing a retail business is not a matter of chance. It requires a clear, actionable plan that aligns with your goals and market realities. I’ve seen many businesses struggle because they lacked a focused approach. Today, I’ll share practical strategies for retail growth that you can implement right away. These strategies will help you build a solid foundation and scale your operations effectively. Understanding Strategies for Retail Growth Before diving into specific tactics

In the fast-paced world of retail and e-commerce, the traditional executive search can feel like trying to change a tire while driving at 70mph. By the time you find, vet, and onboard a permanent leader, the market has shifted, and your window for transformation might have closed. This is where Fractional and Interim Leadership — the core of DWS Partners —changes the game. Unlike traditional recruitment, which focuses on filling a seat, fractional leadership focuses on execut

Developing strong leaders in retail is not optional. It is essential for growth, operational excellence, and adapting to fast-changing markets. I have seen first hand how a well-structured leadership development program transforms teams and drives business success. If you want to build a pipeline of capable leaders who can inspire, innovate, and execute, you need clear strategies and practical steps. Let me walk you through the key leadership development strategies that will

The retail landscape in the UK is evolving faster than ever. If you want to stay ahead, you need to understand the forces shaping the market today. I’m here to break down the latest UK retail trends and insights that will help you make smarter decisions and grow your business. Let’s dive in. Shifting Consumer Behaviour in UK Retail Trends Consumers are more informed and selective. They expect seamless experiences across all channels. Here’s what I’ve noticed: Demand for conve

Growing a retail business is not just about increasing sales today. It’s about building a foundation that supports sustainable success over years. I’ve seen many businesses chase quick wins but struggle to maintain momentum. That’s why I focus on creating retail growth strategies that are practical, scalable, and tailored to your unique market. In this post, I’ll walk you through the essential steps to develop a growth plan that drives lasting results. You’ll get clear, acti

The UK retail landscape is evolving fast. Staying ahead means understanding the shifts in consumer behaviour, technology, and market dynamics. I’m here to break down the latest UK retail trends and insights that will help you make smarter decisions and grow your business. Understanding the Current UK Retail Trends Retail in the UK is no longer just about selling products. It’s about creating experiences, leveraging technology, and adapting to new consumer expectations. Here’s

Developing strong leaders in retail is not optional. It’s essential. The retail landscape is fast-paced and competitive. You need leaders who can inspire teams, manage operations efficiently, and drive growth. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-structured leadership development program transforms businesses. It builds confidence, sharpens skills, and creates a pipeline of future leaders ready to tackle challenges head-on. In this post, I’ll share practical leadership development

Growing a retail business is no small feat. It demands clear focus, smart planning, and consistent execution. I’ve seen many businesses struggle because they lacked a solid framework to guide their expansion. That’s why I want to share practical insights on creating retail growth strategies that deliver sustainable results. Whether you run a physical store, an e-commerce platform, or a wholesale operation, these strategies will help you build momentum and secure your future.