Its chief executive, Angela Ahrendts, said the move was in keeping with Burberry’s aim of “unifying the brand” – famous for its black, tan and red trademark check.

China was an “exciting” market, said Ahrendts, with the deal which takes in 50 stores in 30 cities, providing a platform for growth in a “high-growth luxury region”.

Ahrendts’s predecessor Rose Marie Bravo is credited with reinventing what was once a dowdy British trenchcoat-maker as a global luxury brand. She instigated the slow process of buying out its licence holders around the world and Ahrendts has continued with it since taking over in 2006. In February Burberry, whose glamorous campaigns are fronted by Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, announced the closure of its Spanish business, which made a cheaper clothing line sold in department stores such as El Corte Inglés.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) July 13, 2010

Adgregate Markets, the leading provider of secure, social commerce solutions, announced today the addition of two retail industry veterans to its management team. Sharon Kelley, formerly of AOL, has been named Chief Revenue Officer, and David Sessions, formerly of Walmart, has been appointed to Adgregate Markets’ Board of Directors.

Social commerce inside Facebook is exploding, and online retailers are lining up in droves to set up storefronts to woo would-be shoppers. Adgregate’s leading secure social commerce solution is poised to help retailers turn fan conversations into “in Facebook” conversions. Adgregate has seen 400% growth since launching its ShopFans™ social commerce solution in the second quarter this year.

“E-commerce growth has flatlined, so retailers are scrambling to establish and grow their e-tail business through new channels like Facebook,” states David Sessions. “True social commerce, where purchase opportunities are presented in social media, presents a tremendous opportunity for retailers to inspire conversations that drive consumers to purchase products.”

In order to support its aggressive growth, Adgregate has appointed Sharon Kelley as its new Chief Revenue Officer. Sharon will be responsible for worldwide sales and driving ROI for online retail clients. Sharon previously developed and led the national strategy for the retail vertical, and was responsible for $150M in new sales for AOL. During her 10 years at AOL, Sharon led award winning sales teams that consistently surpassed her peers and company goals. Her team-focused leadership drove the creation of partnerships and business development relationships designed to capitalize on new media opportunities and market share expansion.

Adgregate also announced that seasoned e-commerce veteran David Sessions has joined its Board of Directors. Fresh from the world’s largest retailer Walmart, David was most recently Vice President of Global E-commerce where he oversaw Walmart’s expansion into international markets including China, India, and Brazil. David was instrumental in leading Walmart.com’s entrance and growth in emerging markets to reach previously untapped consumers. Prior to joining Walmart, he was Vice President of Commerce Strategy at Microsoft, where he was responsible for developing strategy and driving projects to expand commerce capabilities within Microsoft. Additionally, David Sessions was an active board member of The Merchant Risk Council where he advised industry leaders in best practices and methodologies that makes e-commerce more efficient, safe, and profitable.

“Having the perspectives of being both a buyer and seller of retail solutions, David and Sharon understand the unique challenges and opportunities that e-commerce retailers face today,” states Henry Wong, Adgregate CEO. “Their e-commerce expertise and ability to drive value for their stakeholders will enable retailers to capitalize on the promise of social commerce with our leading ShopFans solution — and turn brand conversations into conversions in a way that is seamless and secure.”

Adgregate Markets’ suite of distributed commerce products that enables retailers to bring the point of purchase to the point of discovery includes ShopFans™, ShopAds™, Mobile ShopAds™, and SecureAds™. Adgregate Markets technology is the only distributed and social commerce solutions to be certified by McAfee and TRUSTe. For more information, visit http://www.adgregate.com.

About Adgregate Markets
Adgregate Markets is the leading provider of secure advertising and distributed commerce solutions. ShopAds™ guide prospective customers from the point of discovery to the point of purchase entirely within innovative online and mobile ads. ShopFans™ takes social shopping on Facebook and micro-sites to a new level. SecureAds™ are the world’s most secure ads for customer engagement. Adgregate is a privately held company based in the San Francisco Bay Area and is venture-backed by leading investors. Adgregate has received numerous industry awards for its innovative social commerce and advertising technology, including Techcrunch50 Finalist, AlwaysOn OnMedia 100 Winner, and Ad:Tech’s White Hot Company. For additional information, please visit www.adgregate.com.

Media Contacts:
Adgregate Markets:
Jessie Morgan
(408) 838-0143

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prwebAdgregate-Markets/Facebook-Store-ShopFans/prweb4240624.htm

(PRWEB) June 13, 2010 — Customers of CPL Distribution, the UK’s largest coal merchants and solid fuel supplier, buying over 500kg of coal or smokeless fuel can get reductions of up to £30 per tonne and can even defer delivery until the end of September if they order by the end of August.

CPL is urging people to be one step ahead of the game this Winter by stocking up on their fuel for the colder months now, while supplies are less in demand and therefore cheaper.

Jon Carter, Marketing Manager at CPL which runs Coals2u.co.uk the UK’s biggest online solid fuel retailer, said: “With Summer upon us stocking up on fuel for Winter is the last thing on many people’s minds but it’s precisely what we should be thinking about doing to save serious money on our heating bills, especially if we are to be hit with another harsh Winter.

“The snowy conditions that we experienced this January was the most prolonged we’ve had for 30 years and caused some people to be left without heating as deliveries of coal and smokeless fuel simply couldn’t get to them on account of the treacherous conditions.

“Additionally we expect the price of house coal and smokeless fuel deliveries to go up in September so stocking up now for the months ahead will help people to manage their budgets and stay warm.”

Notes for Editors

Terms and Conditions
Offer is valid on orders of 500kg or more of selected smokeless fuel brands and must be placed by 31st August with latest deferred delivery 30th September. Customers can order via the coals2u.co.uk website or by telephone if they prefer.

About CPL Distribution / Coals2u
CPL Distribution Limited is the largest UK Coal Merchant and solid fuel supplier with around 30 coal depots nationwide. Each local depot offers a friendly, local service to 70,000 of our regular customers.

CPL Distribution supplies an extensive range of solid fuels; namely house coal, logs and smokeless fuels to households, commercial outlets and industry too.

* Royal Warrant to supply Her Majesty The Queen.
* CPL produces eCoal - the UK’s best eco smokeless fuel
* Part of CPL Industries Group of companies
* Last year CPL Industries supplied 275,000 tonnes of fuel to approximately 150,000 solid fuel customers.
* Customers can order direct by coals2u.co.uk website

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/06/prweb4122994.htm

(PRWeb UK) June 12, 2010 — Are you looking at buying a business in Yorkshire which is already fully up and running? An established franchise opportunity with Signs Express could be a much safer option than starting in business alone. In fact, there is currently a Signs Express business for sale in the Yorkshire area which could provide the ideal chance to own a profitable business.

Buying an existing business in Yorkshire, and especially a resale franchise www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise/resales.cfm, holds a number of benefits including the opportunity to potentially make money instantly. By taking on an already established business opportunity in Yorkshire, the new business owner will gain a distinct advantage as the business is already up and running. There are no headaches over finding a production unit to base the business, plus the centre is already fitted out with the required equipment and furniture; so no waiting around for suppliers and no need to waste time organising the layout, it’s already been done. The staff are even already in place and fully trained, therefore cutting out the time recruiting in the Yorkshire area and providing the business owner with the knowledge of the centre as it currently stands. This means that as soon as the franchise owner is in, he can start trading and continue generating profit from day one.

As a rewarding Signs Express in Yorkshire there are huge benefits within the area. Economically diverse with strong transport links, this Yorkshire location is particularly focused on the service industries including public sector employment, health, education, finance, information technology (IT) and tourism, and is currently experiencing vibrant growth amongst its existing business community which increases scope for business in Yorkshire in the future. The existing business which has been operational since 1994, has an excellent reputation amongst its established customer base and receives a substantial amount of repeat business within the Yorkshire area.

With over 80 centres nationwide and 20 years of experience under its belt, Signs Express www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise business opportunities are growing as more franchisees reach retirement. There are many business owners who joined Signs Express having worked for years in various industries and who were looking for security as they reach retirement age. This means that now, some years later, they have reached their potential and are set to retire and enjoy the money that they have earned through their own hard work over the years.

The key to starting in business and in particular buying an existing franchise in Yorkshire is its distribution channel. The franchise has built up an enviable customer base as a result of time and experience, meaning as a business for sale, the customers would already be there and at the new business owner’s disposal. The same goes for suppliers. Signs Express has its own preferred list of suppliers and in a for sale situation these relationships have already been made with the centre and therefore any problems already ironed out.

As a management franchise, prospective franchisees require no industry experience as full training is provided. Your skills will be based on your own management and sales experience and your ability to lead a team. Ongoing support www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise/support.cfm is available from sales and marketing, accounts, IT, HR, operations and technical as well as initial training to learn more about technical aspects and business techniques.

For more franchise information on the Signs Express Yorkshire business opportunity or in any other franchise locations across the UK, please contact us on 0800 731 2255 or visit www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise.

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://uk.prweb.com/releases/business/opportunity/prweb4123014.htm

(PRWeb UK) June 11, 2010 — Are you looking at buying a business in South London which is already fully up and running? An established franchise opportunity with Signs Express could be a much safer option than starting in business alone. In fact, there is currently a Signs Express business for sale in the South London area which could provide the ideal chance to own a profitable business.

Buying an existing business in London, and especially a resale franchise www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise/resales.cfm, holds a number of benefits including the opportunity to potentially make money instantly. By taking on an already established business opportunity in South London, the new business owner will gain a distinct advantage as the business is already up and running. There are no headaches over finding a production unit to base the business, plus the centre is already fitted out with the required equipment and furniture; so no waiting around for suppliers and no need to waste time organising the layout, it’s already been done. The staff are even already in place and fully trained, therefore cutting out the time recruiting in the London area and providing the business owner with the knowledge of the centre as it currently stands. This means that as soon as the franchise owner is in, he can start trading and continue generating profit from day one.

As well as the rewarding Signs Express location available in South London there are also additional opportunities in the Greater London area. What with being part of the London Plan and the forthcoming Olympics, the London area is currently experiencing vibrant growth amongst its existing business community which increases scope for business in London in the future. The existing business which has been operational since 1996, has an excellent reputation amongst its established customer base and receives a substantial amount of repeat business within the South London area.

With over 80 centres nationwide and 20 years of experience under its belt, Signs Express www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise business opportunities are growing as more franchisees reach retirement. There are many business owners who joined Signs Express having worked for years in various industries and who were looking for security as they reach retirement age. This means that now, some years later, they have reached their potential and are set to retire and enjoy the money that they have earned through their own hard work over the years.

The key to starting in business and in particular buying an existing franchise in London is its distribution channel. The franchise has built up an enviable customer base as a result of time and experience, meaning as a business for sale, the customers would already be there and at the new business owner’s disposal. The same goes for suppliers. Signs Express has its own preferred list of suppliers and in a for sale situation these relationships have already been made with the centre and therefore any problems already ironed out.

As a management franchise, prospective franchisees require no industry experience as full training is provided. Your skills will be based on your own management and sales experience and your ability to lead a team. Ongoing support www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise/support.cfm is available from sales and marketing, accounts, IT, HR, operations and technical as well as initial training to learn more about technical aspects and business techniques.

For more franchise information on the Signs Express South London business opportunity or in any other franchise locations across the UK, please contact us on 0800 731 2255 or visit www.signsexpress.co.uk/franchise.

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://uk.prweb.com/releases/business/opportunity/prweb4118264.htm

The executive chairman earned £2.6 million, including £1.4 million in bonuses and cash allowances. After deferred shares are included his pay rose to £4.3 million.

Remuneration at the retailer has been a sensitive issue since Sir Stuart angered shareholders by becoming the combined chairman and chief executive in 2008.

The company was also criticised by some investors for its £15 million “golden hello” for Marc Bolland, the new chief executive who joined last month. Pirc, the shareholder advisory service, described it as the “worst possible start” for the new regime.

Read full story

The study has come from the British Chambers of Commerce, which said the burden grew by £11bn in 2009 after the UK adopted 40 new European regulations.

The Conservative-Liberal Democrat government has already promised to reduce business regulations.

It has pledged to remove one old regulation for each new one adopted.

The government has also promised not to “gold plate” or add to any new European rules.

‘Relentless flow’

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said its Burdens Barometer report indicated that almost a third of the regulatory burden came from European Union directives last year.

Read full story

Sales grew by 0.3% in April, the Office for National Statistics said, which was slightly better than had been expected.

Food sales were unchanged from the previous month, but the ONS said clothing and shoe stores had seen strong growth.

The sales growth for March was also revised upwards to 0.5% from the original estimate of 0.4%.

“Although these figures were marginally better than expected, they confirm the broad picture of a fragile recovery that is still facing many obstacles,” said David Kern, chief economist at the British Chambers of Commerce.

Read full story

Hampshire, UK (PRWEB) April 27, 2010 — A new report from Juniper Research has found that the mobile marketing and retail sector (comprising mobile advertising, coupons and smart posters) will exceed $8 billion by 2012 globally.

The ‘Mobile Marketing and Retail Strategies‘ report found that Retailers were already starting to exploit the mobile channel through advertising campaigns on the handset and by issuing money-off coupons. The market for these two activities alone is forecast grow by half in the next two years.

According to report co-author Howard Wilcox, “Our research and interviews showed that location aware technologies will play a key part. Companies like Google and IBM are seeking to exploit the knowledge of where users are located to enable retailers to offer in store shoppers a rich set of capabilities such as personalised special offers. As a result we’re forecasting the mobile coupons market to double to exceed $4 billion in 2012.”

Retailers Migrating to Mobile
At a recent mobile industry event, CTIA Wireless 2010, more than 20 percent of the show’s attendees were said to come from the retail space, showing that retailers were beginning to latch on to the potential of the mobile channel.

Whilst the mobile advertising and mobile coupons markets will reach similar sizes, Juniper believes that smart posters (which users can tap to obtain product information) will remain a niche sector within the overall market until NFC (Near Field Communications) capable devices are more widely used.

The report also warns however that failure to use targeted, location based advertising, particularly SMS advertising, may cause mobile users to regard such advertising as little better than spam. The report recommends that brands and retailers should consider geotagging their products and locations.

Further findings include:
• Western Europe forecast to nearly treble in size between 2010 and 2014
• Brands, retailers and merchants should use clever, engaging apps, which can be far more effective at increasing brand awareness than other mobile channels
Juniper Research assesses the current and future status of mobile retail based on interviews, case studies and analysis from representatives of some of the leading organisations in this bleeding edge industry.

Mobile Retail whitepaper and further details of the study ‘Mobile Marketing & Retail Strategies: Advertising, Coupons & Smart Posters 2009-2014′ can be freely downloaded from www.juniperresearch.com or contact john.levett(at)juniperresearch(dot)com.

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/04/prweb3924144.htm

London, UK (PRWEB) April 15, 2010 — Savoo.co.uk, one of the fastest-growing voucher code sites, which features offers such as Dell discount codes, has appointed Simon Bird as the second UK-based person to join its team as UK Director of Retail Partnerships. Bird’s appointment is testament to Savoo’s heavy investment in working towards their goal of becoming number one in the UK voucher space, replicating the success of savings.com, their US parent company.

With Over 10 years of international and strategic commercial development with B2B and B2C markets, Simon’s business development expertise will be essential to developing key merchant partnerships for Savoo.co.uk.

Savoo.co.uk’s parent company, Savings.com, was founded in 2007, and has developed a number of media and exclusive retailer partnerships, including New York Daily News, The Oprah Winfrey Network, Gap and Old Navy clothing, delivering over £300m of revenue to its customers this year.

Birds’ role will be to work closely with UK retailers and networks to maximise the value received through affiliate channels. In his role he will initiate and build mutually beneficial partnerships advising on strategy and helping merchants to achieve their goals in the online retail and voucher space, securing deals such as Argos vouchers. All this being part of Savoo’s aggressive growth strategy that will replicate the huge success Savings.com has experienced in the U.S. over the last two years.

“Vouchers have grown significantly in popularity in the last year, representing opportunities for retailers despite the market downturn in terms of strengthening brand loyalty and awareness,” commented Bird, “I am excited to join the team and look forward to building Savoo’s leading position in the market.”

Bird began his career working in business development for online technology companies sixteen years ago. He began his merchant relationship career working for Softpoint Multimedia UK Ltd where he developed online loyalty and acquisition programmes for online data collection sites and Internet Service Providers including AOL. Prior to joining Savoo, he was a Brand Sales Manager at Affiliate Window (part of Digital Window), one of the largest Affiliate Networks in the UK. Bird was involved in securing large online merchants to the affiliate marketing network as well as developing strategic relationships with the UK’s top digital and interactive agencies. In this role he secured over 300 brand partnerships, driving gross profits in excess of £1.5m (in their first year on the network). High profile wins included Sky, BA, Boden & New Look.

“We are pleased to have someone of Simon’s calibre to strengthen our team. His background in securing affiliate and major online merchants is exactly what we need to achieve our goal of repeating our US success story in the UK voucher industry,” commented Loren Bendele, CEO of Savoo.co.uk, “I have no doubt that Simon will be highly instrumental to our success.”

Become a fan of Savoo.co.uk on Facebook:
Savoo.co.uk has just launched a Facebook fan page and will be giving away £100 of Amazon vouchers to one lucky fan. The draw will take place once there are 500 fans and all fans will be entered. For further details, and to be kept up to date on the best bargains on the internet, click here.

PHOTO AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

About Savoo.co.uk:
Savoo.co.uk is a free, online voucher site that allows people to save on almost anything that they want to buy online.

Savoo.co.uk’s dedicated team of Deal Hunters scours the web to find top offers in every category, from designer clothes and baby gear to big screen TVs and gourmet food. Savoo.co.uk currently offers approximately 5,000 unique, active vouchers, with opportunities to save everyday on major brands, such as Apple, Amazon, Argos, Dell, Debenhams, Figleaves, Tesco, etc. If consumers are too embarrassed to use vouchers in public, then Savoo.co.uk is also a ‘discreet’ way for them to save lots of money on all of their purchases.

Savoo.co.uk’s mission is to be a true consumer champion by offering consumers the straightest, simplest road to the best deals online, as well as by offering lots of exclusive deals.

Visitors to Savoo.co.uk can add tips and great deals and become a Savoo.co.uk Deal Expert, earning the respect and admiration of fellow members. Or they can contribute to the community by voting and commenting on deals, which also lets the Deal Experts know they appreciate their savings savvy.

Savoo.co.uk is the perfect way to make day-to-day savings – and all without having to tackle the High Street.

Follow us on Twitter for the latest deals @Savoo
Become a fan of Savoo.co.uk on Facebook

For further information please contact:
Komodo PR
Tel: 020 7680 5520
Selena Chan e: selena.chan(at)komodopr(dot)com
Jayne Stala e: jayne.stala(at)komodopr(dot)com

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For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/04/prweb3874614.htm