Just one of the trends we have been tracking over this year at LDC is the increasing focus on all things health and wellbeing, which continues to have a profound impact on the market. For example, in May this year, the ONS released 2017 data on alcohol consumption in the UK which indicated a rise in the number of people that claimed to be teetotal in 16-24, 25-44 and 45-64 age groups. (Source: ONS, May 2018). In line with these figures, we recently released data revealing a significant decrease in the number of pubs, a trend most likely to be linked to the changes in drinking behaviour outlined by the ONS.

Nike’s rethinking of its entire distribution strategy has created some of the most interesting and thoughtful retail ideas of the moment. Nike by Melrose is the physical embodiment of the company’s 2017 edict to their wholesale channel that they would in future directly support only those retail partners that offer a differentiated experience. This will lead, they anticipate, to a reduction from 30,000 supported retail partners to just 40 worldwide.

Last week saw our 18^th Retail and Leisure Trends Summit, held at the beautiful BCLP LLP offices at London Bridge. We had some fantastic speakers who joined us to discuss the theme of ‘Driving Retail Intelligence with Big Data’. For those that missed the event, here is a short round-up of the day:

LDC's latest bi-annual report is out today and provides an update on the impact of market activity across the first six months of this year.

Since as early as 1965, American burger brands have been establishing their presence in the UK with big names such as McDonalds, Burger King and Five Guys. This US staple has become a favourite for the British consumer, leading British entrepreneurs to adapt the cuisine to the tastes of the UK. So, who does it better - the US or the UK? I'm going to leverage LDC data to find out!

This bi-annual report looks at the entire retail and leisure sector over five years (2012 - 2017), with a focus on changes over 12 months of 2017.

Five Guys is an American burger joint which originated in Virginia DC in 1986, when the Murrell brothers were encouraged by their parents to start a business. As the family grew, so did the business, which resulted in them naming the brand that is known in several corners of the world as ‘Five Guys’ (representing the five Murrell brothers). The unique selling point for Five Guys was the ability for its customers to be able to customise their burger with as many fresh toppings as you could imagine. They also focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and to this day, Five Guys don’t have a single can opener or a freezer in any of their stores worldwide! 

Things are getting busy at LDC HQ as we have less than two weeks to go until LDC's 17th Retail and Leisure Trends Summit on June 4th.

A bank holiday always lifts the spirits and from everyone at LDC we truly hope you had a very "hoppy" Easter! 

February may have been a bit colder than usual, but LDC knows that warm weather is on the horizon (and we are definitely looking forward to it!)