Latest news with #Amazon-style
Miami Herald
an hour ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Struggling online retailer makes surprising change
The retail world has been rocked by store closures in the past few years. 2024 was especially grim. There were 7,325 store closures in 2024, the highest since 2020, when there were nearly 10,000 closures. according to data from Coresight Research. Even with 5,970 store openings in 2024-the highest since 2012, when CR first began tracking - that's still a net loss of 1,355 stores. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter If the brand survives despite brick-and-mortar locations shuttering, it often goes all-in with its digital storefront. But sometimes the opposite occurs: an online-only retailer decides to take the plunge and open up physical locations. It's a risky move for sure, given that physical stores cost a lot more to run. But as the saying goes, no risk, no reward-or at least that's the hope of one struggling home retail brand. Wayfair's (W) luxury home brand Perigold is celebrating the opening of its first physical store in Houston. The company's headquarters might be in Boston, but Houston's Highland Village, an upscale shopping destination, was picked for the inaugural brick-and-mortar location. "Opening our first physical store is a transformative step for Perigold, and there's no better city to begin this journey in than Houston," said Global Head of Perigold Rebecca Ginns in a company statement. "This is a market where design is celebrated and our customers are deeply engaged. We're excited to create a space that reflects our commitment to excellence in both product and experience." Related: Fashion giant files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy to liquidate It's an interesting time for a home retailer to open a physical store. It was just announced that DTC home linens brand Parachute is set to close 19 stores this year in favor of focusing on partnerships with retailers, including Target and Nordstrom. The company will be keeping seven stores open. Perigold is taking inspiration from its parent company. Last year, Wayfair opened its first store in Wilmette, IL, with plans for other locations, albeit amid struggling sales. In March, the company laid off 340 tech workers due to a decline in sales. So why would an online retailer take the risk and open a physical store? When it comes to home furnishings, especially luxury items, many people want to see things in person before they commit to a purchase. Perigold now offers that opportunity in its nearly 20,000-square-foot store, where it will feature more than 150 luxury brands, including Visual Comfort, Century Furniture, and Oly. There will also be immersive displays from designers like Marie Flanigan, Julie Neill, and Even Millard. ≈"This store is more than a retail location–it's an invitation into the world of Perigold. We're creating a resource for customers and designers to explore, collaborate, and access brands that are rarely found under one roof," Ginns said. Related: Target unveils Amazon-style revival plan to win back customers In addition to an upscale shopping experience, the Perigold store will offer exclusive events, workshops, and personalized service for both home design lovers and professionals. The company hopes that the store will be a hub for the design community in Houston. And Houston is just the start. The company confirmed that a second location in West Palm Beach, Florida, will open later this year. More retail: Walmart CEO sounds alarm on a big problem for customersTarget makes a change that might scare Walmart, CostcoTop investor takes firm stance on troubled retail brandWalmart and Costco making major change affecting all customers Perigold's Grand Opening Weekend is June 27 through June 29. Guests will be treated to free refreshments and music while they shop, plus there's a 15% discount on any in-store purchase (up to $500 in savings). The store is open 10 AM to 8 PM Monday through Saturday and 12 PM to 6 PM on Sunday. Related: Analyst sounds alarm after S&P 500 hits all-time high The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Scottish Sun
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Love Island star jailed for 14 years over role in ‘Amazon-style' drugs cartel which flooded UK with narcotics
She helped flood UK streets with "eye-opening" amounts of drugs 'KINGPIN' BARBIE Love Island star jailed for 14 years over role in 'Amazon-style' drugs cartel which flooded UK with narcotics Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A LOVE Island star has been jailed for 14 years for her crucial role in a multi-million pound "Amazon-style" drug smuggling operation. Magdalena Sadlo, nicknamed Barbie, helped transport hundreds of kilos of cocaine across the world for a major cartel based in the Middle East. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Carlisle Crown Court heard that Sadlo was brought in as a financial director for the smuggling ring Credit: Polsat / Love Island 6 The Love Island contestant acted as the business brain for the cartel Credit: Supplied 6 She helped organise the shipment of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis to the UK Credit: Polsat / Love Island The 30-year-old, who appeared in the 2021 series of Love Island in her native Poland, was working in hospitality in Dubai whilst helping to flood UK streets with "eye-opening" amounts of drugs. Carlisle Crown Court heard that Sadlo, of Bracknell, Berkshire, was brought in as a financial director for the smuggling ring. Their operation was so slick that some investigators compared it to Amazon. She helped organise the shipment of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis to Holland and then on to Britain. Prosecuting, Tim Evans told how the international cartel could not have operated at the level it did without Sadlo's "efficiency". He said: "She not only manages the profits, costs and expenses but also manages the stock levels. "She updates who has taken what, at what cost, from what batch and the profit margins involved. "She is very much part of the inner circle… and is operating and seated at the very highest of tables. "She clearly knew the scale and seriousness of the trade she was engaging in. "No organised crime group working at this level could operate or function without Magdalena Sadlo, or an equivalent, performing this role." While based in the UK, she operated as a drugs courier, often collecting cocaine as it was imported into the port of Harwich in Essex. Drugs experts believe she moved 300kg of cocaine across seven trips, including 33kg of cocaine to Greater Manchester on one date alone. Love Island star, 29, caught smuggling COCAINE on flight from Dubai as part of £53MILLION drug ring The drugs were stored in safe houses in the Manchester area before being distributed to dealers over several months using BMWs. She then helped launder the proceeds by investing in designer clothes and luxury watches including a £130,000 Patek Philippe and a £30,000 Rolex. Detectives held Sadlo when she landed at Heathrow Airport on February 13 last year, having flown Emirates first class from Dubai. She was caught carrying luxury watches, bracelets and rings, and a 'crime CV' boasting her business acumen and qualifications. Encrypted texts on her phones revealed her "Barbie" nickname. In one message, she quipped: 'The devil works hard, but Barbie works harder.' Sadlo was due to have been sentenced in April after admitting conspiring to supply drugs and to launder money. 6 Encrypted texts on her phones revealed her 'Barbie' nickname Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk 6 Detectives held Sadlo (left) when she landed at Heathrow Airport in February last year Credit: Polsat / Love Island But sentencing was adjourned after insisting she played only a minor role as a £1,000-a-month personal assistant. Finally sentencing her to 14 years yesterday, Judge Nicholas Barker said that Sadlo was "central" to the organisation. He added: "I conclude there was gain and reward and in some way considerable to you. "You are an intelligent woman and well understand risk and reward. "I find you acted with real enthusiasm and sought to impress those at top." Thirteen members of the gang have already been jailed for up to 20 years each.
The Irish Sun
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Love Island star jailed for 14 years over role in ‘Amazon-style' drugs cartel which flooded UK with narcotics
A LOVE Island star has been jailed for 14 years for her crucial role in a multi-million pound "Amazon-style" drug smuggling operation. Magdalena Sadlo, nicknamed Barbie, helped transport hundreds of kilos of cocaine across the world for a major cartel based in the Middle East. Advertisement 6 Carlisle Crown Court heard that Sadlo was brought in as a financial director for the smuggling ring Credit: Polsat / Love Island 6 The Love Island contestant acted as the business brain for the cartel Credit: Supplied 6 She helped organise the shipment of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis to the UK Credit: Polsat / Love Island The 30-year-old, who appeared in the 2021 series of Love Island in her native Poland, was working in hospitality in Dubai whilst helping to flood UK streets with "eye-opening" amounts of drugs. Carlisle Crown Court heard that Sadlo, of Bracknell, Berkshire, was brought in as a financial director for the smuggling ring. Their operation was so slick that some investigators compared it to Amazon. She helped organise the shipment of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis to Advertisement Read more News Prosecuting, Tim Evans told how the international cartel could not have operated at the level it did without Sadlo's "efficiency". He said: "She not only manages the profits, costs and expenses but also manages the stock levels. "She updates who has taken what, at what cost, from what batch and the profit margins involved. "She is very much part of the inner circle… and is operating and seated at the very highest of tables. Advertisement Most read in The Sun Exclusive Breaking "She clearly knew the scale and seriousness of the trade she was engaging in. "No organised crime group working at this level could operate or function without Magdalena Sadlo, or an equivalent, performing this role." While based in the UK, she operated as a drugs courier, often collecting cocaine as it was imported into the port of Harwich in Essex. Drugs experts believe she moved 300kg of cocaine across seven trips, including 33kg of cocaine to Greater Manchester on one date alone. Advertisement Love Island star, 29, caught smuggling COCAINE on flight from Dubai as part of £53MILLION drug ring The drugs were stored in safe houses in the Manchester area before being distributed to dealers over several months using BMWs . She then helped launder the proceeds by investing in designer clothes and luxury watches including a £130,000 Patek Philippe and a £30,000 Rolex. Detectives held Sadlo when she landed at Heathrow Airport on February 13 last year, having flown Emirates first class from Dubai. She was caught carrying luxury watches, bracelets and rings, and a 'crime CV' boasting her business acumen and qualifications. Advertisement Encrypted texts on her phones revealed her "Barbie" nickname. In one message, she quipped: 'The devil works hard, but Barbie works harder.' Sadlo was due to have been sentenced in April after admitting conspiring to supply drugs and to launder money. 6 Encrypted texts on her phones revealed her 'Barbie' nickname Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk Advertisement 6 Detectives held Sadlo (left) when she landed at Heathrow Airport in February last year Credit: Polsat / Love Island But sentencing was adjourned after insisting she played only a minor role as a £1,000-a-month personal assistant. Finally sentencing her to 14 years yesterday, Judge Nicholas Barker said that Sadlo was "central" to the organisation. He added: "I conclude there was gain and reward and in some way considerable to you. Advertisement "You are an intelligent woman and well understand risk and reward. "I find you acted with real enthusiasm and sought to impress those at top." Thirteen members of the gang have already been jailed for up to 20 years each. 6 Judge Nicholas Barker said that Sadlo was 'central' to the organisation Credit: Linkedin Advertisement
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Millions more to get test results via NHS app, government says
The NHS app will become the default method of communication for millions more patients in England and save the health service £200m over the next three years, the government has said. More test results, screening invitations and appointment reminders will be sent directly to smartphones as part of a £50m investment in the app, in a move away from traditional communication methods such as letters. It is estimated that at least 50 million letters are sent to patients each year. The Department of Health and Social Care said that people who cannot access app messaging - including elderly patients - will receive text messages and then a letter as a last resort, and NHS phone lines would be freed up. The department says 270 million messages will be sent through the NHS app this financial year - an increase of 70 million on the previous year. Push notifications will provide appointment reminders to patients to try to reduce the risk of no attendance - with around eight million missed appointments in elective care missed in 2023/24. Work is also under way to enable users of the app to add appointments to their phone calendars and request help from their local GP surgeries. Figures show that more than 11 million people in the UK log into the NHS app every month, while almost 20 million are opted in to receive healthcare messages from the app. It is hoped the changes will give patients better access to manage their healthcare journey and make informed decisions about their care. NHS app services, which were launched in December 2018, are now used in 87% of hospitals across England. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said further investment in the app would bring the NHS into the digital age so that being a patient was as "convenient as online banking or ordering a takeaway". He added that moving away from paper communication could free up funding for front line services. Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patient's Association, said the upgrade was a "significant step in modernising how patients receive information". The British Medical Association (BMA) has previously warned that a reliance on apps to the NHS to communicate with patients risked alienating patients who don't have access to digital technology. It followed the government's announcement in January that it planned to allow more patients in England to book treatments and appointments through the app. Last month, NHS England announced millions of patients would be able to get "Amazon-style" tracking updates on their prescriptions through the app, to check if their medicines are ready to collect or have been despatched for delivery. New app trial cuts skin cancer referrals by 50% NHS App upgrade to give patients more choice over treatment Patients to get full access to record on NHS App
South Wales Guardian
07-06-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
NHS app to become default source for appointments, screenings and test results
Millions more people will receive personal health information directly to their smartphones within the next three years in a move that is expected to save the health service £200 million, the Department of Health and Social Care said. It will also avoid the need for at least 50 million NHS letters being sent by post each year, with the Health Secretary likening the shift from analogue to digital to 'online banking or ordering a takeaway'. The £50 million investment will see 270 million messages sent through the NHS app this year, an increase of 70 million on the previous financial year. Push notifications will provide appointment reminders to patients to try to reduce the risk of no attendance, with around eight million missed appointments in elective care missed in 2023/24. 📱 Do you have your NHS App notifications on? 📩 To help patients, over 160 million messages were sent via the NHS App in the last year. ✅ Turn notifications on to get the most out of your NHS App. Learn more: — Department of Health and Social Care (@DHSCgovuk) June 7, 2025 More than 11 million people in the UK currently log into the NHS app every month, while almost 20 million are opted in to receive healthcare messages from the app. Where app messaging is not available, particularly for elderly patients without smartphones, communications will be sent via text message and then by letter as a last resort and phone lines will be freed up. It is hoped the changes will give patients better access to manage their healthcare journey and make informed decisions about their care. NHS app services, which were launched in December 2018, are now used in 87% of hospitals across England. Last month, NHS England announced millions of patients would be able to get 'Amazon-style' tracking updates on their prescriptions through the app, to check if their medicines are ready to collect or have been despatched for delivery. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: 'People are living increasingly busy lives and want to access information about their health at the touch of a button, rather than having to wait weeks for letters that often arrive too late. 'This Government is bringing our analogue health service into the digital age, so that being a patient in the NHS is as convenient as online banking or ordering a takeaway. 'The NHS still spends hundreds of millions of pounds on stamps, printing, and envelopes. By modernising the health service, we can free up huge amounts of funding to reinvest in the front line. 'Through the investment and reform in our Plan for Change, we will make the NHS App the front door to the health service and put power in the hands of patients.' Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patient's Association, said: 'This major upgrade to the NHS App marks a significant step in modernising how patients receive information, from test results to screening invitations. 'This was a recommendation from our Digital Coalition and realises changes that patients have asked for. 'We welcome this investment and the ambition behind it. Success for any digital innovation will be the implementation of the Digital Inclusion Plan and working directly with patients and communities.'
