Tesco is preparing to launch over 70 new Express stores in various locations across the UK by converting former Amazon Fresh sites. The rebranding and transformation of these sites into Tesco Express stores are scheduled to be completed by March next year. Among the locations set to reopen as Tesco Express stores are Kensington High Street, Hounslow, Moorgate, Aldgate East, and Wembley in London. These stores are expected to reopen before the summer season. Amazon had closed its remaining 19 Fresh stores in September last year.
Nick Johnson, Tesco Group Property Director, expressed enthusiasm about expanding the store network to serve more communities and customers with quality products, great value, and excellent customer service.
In a separate initiative, Worcestershire County Council is offering up to £500 in energy bill support to eligible households living in specific districts within the county. Eligibility criteria include residing in Malvern, Worcester, Wychavon, Bromsgrove, Redditch, or Wyre Forest District, having an annual gross household income of £24,570 or less for single individuals without children, and £31,000 for other households, excluding received benefits. Additional vulnerability criteria must also be met to qualify for this support.
Meanwhile, nurseries have been cautioned against charging extra fees to parents for utilizing their free childcare hours. The Department of Education has released updated guidance emphasizing that the free hours should not include any hidden or mandatory charges. While childcare providers can still offer optional extras like meals or trips for a fee, these charges must be transparent and non-compulsory.
In other news, InPost, a parcel locker group, has agreed to be acquired by a consortium led by FedEx and Advent for £6.8 billion. The deal will allow InPost to expand in various markets, including France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Benelux, and the UK. Plans include doubling the number of locker points in the UK to 30,000 and increasing pick-up and drop-off points to 5,500. The acquisition is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2026.
Superdrug has announced its intention to open 30 new stores this year, generating approximately 600 job opportunities. The new stores will be located across England, Scotland, and Wales, offering Superdrug Beauty Studios for various treatments.
Furthermore, NatWest Group has agreed to acquire wealth management firm Evelyn Partners for £2.7 billion. This strategic move is anticipated to enhance NatWest’s fee income and strengthen its private banking and wealth management business. The acquisition aligns with NatWest’s goal of providing financial planning and investment services to a broader customer base.
According to a survey conducted by Which?, one in eight individuals would prefer visiting the dentist over spending an hour planning their retirement. The survey revealed that many people feel unprepared for retirement and are often overwhelmed by the thought of organizing their pension savings. Jenny Ross, Which? Money editor, highlighted the importance of retirement planning and the need for individuals to take control of their financial future.
