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Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
National Ice Cream Day 2025: FDA issues risk warning due to 'class II health risk'. Here's what you can do
It's the National Ice Cream Day in the United States and from ice cream chains to restaurants and even grocery stores, there are ways to score freebies and deals all day long. However, on this 'sweet' day, an Ohio creamery has recalled several of its ice cream flavors because of undeclared allergens , reports NewsWeek. Based in Wauseon, Turkeyfoot Creek Creamery has issued a voluntary recall for multiple pint-size products that were distributed to six retail locations. The affected items have been pulled from store shelves. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category others healthcare Finance MCA Management Technology Data Science Others Cybersecurity Artificial Intelligence Public Policy CXO MBA Healthcare Digital Marketing Project Management Design Thinking PGDM Data Science Leadership Degree Operations Management Data Analytics Product Management Skills you'll gain: Duration: 16 Weeks Indian School of Business CERT - ISB Cybersecurity for Leaders Program India Starts on undefined Get Details The FDA has classified the recall as 'Class II health risk'- which refers to a situation in which the "use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas Prices In Dubai Might Be More Affordable Than You Think Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Quote Undo ALSO READ: Barack Obama-Michelle finally address divorce rumours: 'There hasn't been one moment in our marriage...' Ohio creamery recalls ice cream flavours Millions of people in US are subject to food allergies or food sensitivities, says FDA. Food sensitivities can range from mild reactions to potentially life-threatening symptoms. The agency recognizes nine major food allergens: milk, eggs, sesame, fish, tree nuts, crustacean shellfish, peanuts, wheat and soybeans. Live Events The recall issued by Ohio creamery affects pints of Mocha, Cacao, Cookie Dough, Cookies and Cream, Cacao Brownie Bites, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Avalanche as they may contain "undeclared soy and/or wheat", reports NewsWeek. ALSO READ: Astronomer CEO Andy Byron's divorce bill revealed following Coldplay kiss cam controversy with HR chief While no illnesses have been reported so far, the presence of undeclared allergens poses a potential risk to consumers with soy or wheat allergies. Soy can trigger reactions ranging from mild symptoms—such as hives and stomach cramps—to severe anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. Wheat allergies can cause similar symptoms—including respiratory issues, skin reactions and, in some cases, life-threatening allergic responses. The recalled ice cream pints were sold in paper cartons with paper lids and distributed to six retailers in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. The recall covers all expiration dates, which are printed on the bottom of each carton. "There have been no reports of illness involving products addressed in this recall, however, individuals exhibiting signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction after consuming Turkeyfoot Creek Creamery Ice Cream involved in this recall should contact a physician immediately," according to a news release from the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged not to consume them and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Those with questions can call 419-583-7124.
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Tropical storm Chantal hurricane weakens but still poses big threat to North Carolina. NHC issues urgent travel warning
Tropical storm Chantal made landfall on the East on Sunday, impacting millions of Carolians. The storm has prompted flash flood warnings as it brought heavy rain and winds to coastal areas. Chantal was downgraded to a depression on Sunday after making landfall but continues to pose significant risks of flash flooding across central and eastern North Carolina, according to NewsWeek. ALSO READ: Texas flood horror: Trump planning to re-hire fired meteorologists after devastating tragedy kills 82? by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo Tropical storm Chantal hurricane Flood watches were issued for central North Carolina and south-central Virginia through Monday, with total rainfall of 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) and local amounts up to 6 inches (15 centimeters) that could lead to flash flooding, the hurricane center said. Forecasters said dangerous surf and rip currents at beaches from northeastern Florida to the mid-Atlantic states are expected to last for the next couple of days. As the intensity of the storm lessened, heavy rainfall and dangerous surf conditions remained a threat from the coastal Carolinas as far north as the Mid-Atlantic states. Though the National Hurricane Centre (NHC) cancelled tropical storm warnings for the region but it has advised that rainfall in some pockets could reach up to 6 inches, increasing the threat for flash floods and dangerous travel conditions on Sunday and Monday. Live Events "The Haw River at Bynum in Chatham County is now forecast to crest near 21.2 feet at around 8 a.m. Monday morning," said Jonathan Blaes of the National Weather Service on Sunday night. "At 9:31 p.m., the river was at 17.0 feet and the river had surged up more than 4 feet during the past hour and 7.7 feet over the past two hours. This crest is just below the all-time crest or flood of record of 21.8 feet set during Hurricane Fran." ALSO READ: Melania's unexpected praise for Taylor Swift amid Donald Trump's sharp criticism of American singer Risk of flash floods in Carolina? Even though Chantal has weakened, millions of people still remain in the affected zone and their lives might be at stake. Heavy rains on already saturated grounds heighten the risk of flash flooding, particularly near rivers and low-lying areas of North Carolina. Accumulations of 2 to 4 inches—locally up to 6 inches—were forecast, potentially threatening property, infrastructure, and transportation, according to a report in NewsWeek. The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) highlighted the continued "threat of flash flooding across nearby coastal plain" as a key concern, urging residents to heed local advisories. Chatham County, North Carolina, said on its official X account that part of NC Highway 902 near Chatham Central Rd. had collapsed. "Over 100 roads across the county are flooded, and flooding is expected to continue through tonight and tomorrow—even after the rain ends," the county said. ALSO READ: Anti-Trump protests to hit US streets as 'Free America' rallies planned on July 4: All FAQs answered As flood warnings are in effect, emergency management offices preemptively advised residents to avoid water-covered roads and monitor changing conditions, underscoring the vulnerability of the region during peak Atlantic hurricane season, now in its early active phase. "These rainfall amounts may lead to scattered instances of flash flooding. Chantal is forecast to steadily weaken to a remnant low as it moves further inland through North Carolina by Monday morning" the WPC warned. The remnants of Chantal are expected to continue moving northeastward through North Carolina and toward southern Virginia by Monday. The risk of isolated heavy downpours and flash flooding will persist into Monday, even as the storm weakens further. ALSO READ: Trump's 'big beautiful bill' hands senior citizens a surprise but there's a catch The warnings of flash floods in North Carolina come at a time after deadly flash floods in Texas killed at least 82 people over the Fourth of July holiday weekend and left others still missing. The devastation along the Guadalupe River, outside of San Antonio, has drawn a massive search effort as officials face questions over their preparedness and the speed of their initial actions.
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
July 4th events cancelled in some US cities amid Independence Day celebrations: Is yours on the list?
Citing fears of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, several cities across the United States have cancelled their Fourth of July celebrations just before the holiday, reports NewsWeek. These cities have expressed apprehensions that ICE officials might use these events to arrest people, thus prompting them to cancel or postpone their celebrations. On July 4, Americans usually celebrate Independence Day with large gatherings and fireworks but current events and city budgets are affecting how people spend the holiday in 2025, the report mentions. These cancellations also come as the FBI and DHS have said they are working together to ensure there are no terrorism incidents over the holiday weekend, amid fears of a lone-wolf attack similar to the New Year's Eve attack in New Orleans. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Undo List of cities cancelling July 4 celebrations Los Angeles: Several Fourth of July celebrations have been canceled in Los Angeles over fears of raids by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to local officials and event organizers, according to ABC News. ICE agents last month carried out a series of immigration sweeps across Southern California, sparking protests in Los Angeles that spread nationwide as the raids impacted other parts of the country. ALSO READ: Anti-Trump protests to hit US streets as 'Free America' rallies planned on July 4: All FAQs answered Live Events Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation said on social media: "It is with deep respect and a heavy heart that the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation cancellation of this year's East Los Angeles Rockin 4th of July celebration. Out of caution, and in response to recent ICE enforcement activity impacting our communities, we are prioritizing safety and well-being of our residents, visitors, and staff." Bell Gardens: The city of Bell Gardens has canceled all Independence Day events due to concerns about ICE. The predominantly Hispanic city has been hosting several events over the past few months aimed at educating immigrants on their rights regarding ICE arrests, according to NewsWeek. Esparto Area, CA: Displays in Lodi Lake, El Dorado, Chico, Cloverdale, and St Helena have all been canceled following an explosion at the warehouse containing fireworks for these events. Whittier, CA: The city of Whittier has canceled its 4th of July Freedom Walk following community concerns about the event. Although city officials did not reference ICE in the announcement, Whittier has seen an increase in ICE activity over the past months. Whittier Mayor Joe Vinatieri said in a press release: "While celebrating our nation's founding is very important to me and to Whittier residents, my colleagues and I also want to be sensitive to the recent feedback we've received from some community members asking that we pause this year's Freedom Walk event." Mayor Joe Vinatieri cited "recent feedback we've received from some community members" as the reason for canceling the event. Whittier is still hosting a fireworks display at York Field. ALSO READ: 'Free America': Trump to face nationwide revolt on July 4. Check full list of US cities holding protests SeaTac, WA: The city of SeaTac has canceled its fireworks display, the report said, citing concerns over crowd control and safety. David Inman, the city's communications director, said Angle Lake Park, where the display takes place, has a capacity of 3,200 people, but 10,000 people came last year with only 10 police officers on duty. Itasca, IL: The village of Itasca is known for hosting the largest Fourth of July fireworks display in Illinois, but has had to cancel the famous event this year. Village administrator Carrie Ergo said it was an "extremely difficult decision to make." The display has been canceled due to construction around Hamilton Lakes Business Park. Itasca Village Administrator Carrie Ergo said in a press release: "This was an extremely difficult decision to make. Itasca takes great pride in hosting the biggest and best fireworks show in Northern Illinois. Our first priority is always protecting the safety and security of Itasca residents, businesses, and visitors. Given the unique challenges presented this year, we cannot confidently recommend hosting fireworks in 2025." ALSO READ: Are Starbucks, McDonalds, Dunkin' Donuts, Walmart open on July 4 in US? Check details Immigration raids in Los Angeles More than 1,618 people in Los Angeles have been arrested by the federal government since it began clamping down on residents without citizenship last month, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The detentions have spread fear across Southern California, where some 1.4 million people are estimated to live without full legal authorization, according to the nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute. Since then, arrests have been reported at taco trucks, worksites and even immigration court — prompting some Latino residents to avoid going out in public, whether they have legal status or not. ALSO READ: July 4 federal holiday in US: Are stock market, banks, schools and UPS open today? Check full list Anti-Trump protests on July 4 Meanwhile, Independence Day events are scheduled in protest of Trump's policies, including slashes to Medicaid, said Tamika Middleton, managing director of Women's March. The group had organized the Women's March on Washington in 2017, the day after Trump's first inauguration. This year's events will range from low-key pot lucks to rallies in large cities. For instance, a gathering will be held at a naturalization ceremony in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to show support for new citizens. But there will be larger protests in bigger cities, including one outside Houston's City Hall. 'We're inviting folks to envision what a truly free America looks like,' Middleton said.
Time of India
03-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Free America': Trump to face nationwide revolt on July 4. Check full list of US cities holding protests
Anti-Trump organizers are hosting " Free America " rallies on July 4, i.e. Independence Day, across the country to protest against the President' policies implemented during his second term. The Women's March, an advocacy group, is organising "Free America" protests on July 4 to show dissent against Trump administration's policies on the day when the US will celebrate its Independence Day. "Your freedom. Your people. Your rebellion," the Women's March website said. Participants have been encouraged to plan various activities, including rallies, marches, street parades, art projects, BBQs, dance events, and block parties. Dubbed as 'No Kings Protest 2.0,' this rally is meant as a follow-up to the demonstrations held earlier against the backdrop of the Army Day Parade in Washington DC. Millions of people took to the streets for "No Kings" protests on June 14, targeting Trump's military parade marking the Army's 250th anniversary that coincided with his 79th birthday. ALSO READ: Deadly River North shooting took place after album release party in Chicago, leaves 4 dead Which US cities are organising protests? Women's March, the organization behind "Free America Weekend," has asked people to join or host events over the coming holiday weekend in protest against the Trump administration. "We invite communities to create their own Free America events—rallies, marches, block parties, banner drops, street parades, art builds, backyard BBQs, dance protests, and more," the Women's March website said. The focus of the protests is to challenge the influence of billionaires, combat poverty, resist unlawful commands, and reject fear-based politics, according to their website. Live Events "They want us scared, divided, and alone. They don't want us to dream about freedom. But that's exactly what we have to do," it continued. "This Fourth of July, we will be in the streets with songs of freedom and joy. The dream of American freedom belongs to all of us, and we will not stop in our pursuit of its promise, now or ever." ALSO READ: Diogo Jota's heartfelt message to younger brother Andre Silva resurfaces after their tragic deaths According to NewsWeek, Free America events taking place at these locations over the holiday week: Montgomery, Alabama: Free America Weekend Food and School Supply Drive, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on July 4 at the NewSouth Bookstore, 105 South Court Street Soldotna, Alaska: Interfaith Picnic and Free America Music Jam, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 5 at Soldotna Creek Park, 251 States Avenue Little Rock, Arkansas: Candlelight Vigil, 8:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4 at Junction Bridge Los Angeles, California: Los Feliz Free America Weekend, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Vermont and Prospect Traffic Triangle, 4757 Prospect Avenue Arvada, Colorado: Free America Weekend, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on July 4 at 7305 Grandview Avenue Hartford, Connecticut: West Hartford's Free America Weekend, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on July 5 at Connecticut Veteran's Memorial Park Miami, Florida: Reclaim Freedom Rally, from 11 a.m. on July 4 at the Torch of Friendship, 301 Biscayne Boulevard Chicago, Illinois: People's Independence Day Chicago, from 11 a.m. on July 4 at Federal Plaza, 230 South Dearborn Indianapolis, Indiana: Indiana 50501 Community Cookout, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on July 4 at 2432 Conservatory Drive Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Free America Weekend, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 4 at Cedar Rapids U.S. Courthouse, 111 7th Avenue Southeast Lafayette, Louisiana: 337 Free America Weekend, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on July 4 at Prejean Point, 735 Jefferson Street Freeport, Maine: Free America Event from 10 a.m. on July 4 at 2 Merrill Road North East, Maryland: Let Freedom Ring!, from 10 a.m. on July 4 at North East Community Park, 200 West Walnut Street Riverview, Michigan: Freedom vs. Fascism, 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 5 at Riverview Veterans Memorial Library, 14300 Sibley Road St. Cloud, Minnesota: St. Cloud Area Free America Weekend, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 4 at Great River Regional Library, 1300 West Saint Germain Street Saint Joseph, Missouri: Let Freedom Ring in St. Joseph!, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on July 4 at 3702 Frederick Avenue Forsyth, Montana: Free America BBQ & Protest, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on July 4 at Marcyes Park, 400 Front Street Suncook, New Hampshire: N.H. Statewide Bridge Occupation, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on July 6, location to be announced Trenton, New Jersey: Free America Protest, from 6 p.m. on July 4 at the Plaza, 145 West State Street Alamogordo, New Mexico: Otero County Free America Weekend, from 10 a.m. on July 4 at 1001 North White Sands Boulevard Mamaroneck, New York: Free America July 4th Weekend, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on July 5 at Harbor Island, Boston Post Road Morrisville, North Carolina: Triangle Bridges to Freedom, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on July 6 at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, 2400 John Brantley Boulevard Columbus, Ohio: Free America Weekend, from 10 a.m. on July 4 at the Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square Portland, Oregon: Free America Weekend—Sellwood Bridge Protest, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on July 4 at Southwest Sellwood Bridge Lancaster, Pennsylvania: Lancaster Free America Weekend, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on July 5 at 1 Penn Square Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Myrtle Beach Free America Weekend, from 10 a.m. on July 4, location to be announced Sioux Falls, South Dakota: Sioux Falls Independence Day, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on July 4 at USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial, 2705 West 12th Street Houston, Texas: Houston Free America Weekend, from 10 a.m. on July 4 at Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby Street Salt Lake City, Utah: Free America Weekend, from 10 a.m. on July 4 at the Utah State Capitol, 350 State Street Shelburne, Vermont : Shelburne—Take Back Your County, 12 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 4 at 5300 Shelburne Road Roanoke, Virginia: No Kings 2.0, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on July 4 at Elmwood Park, 505 Williamson Road Southeast Seattle, Washington: Seattle: Queen Anne Resist, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at West Dravus Street Overpass, 1800 West Dravus Street Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Green Bay—Free America Weekend, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on July 4, 100 East Walnut Street Jackson, Wyoming: Teton County Free America March, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on July 4 at 447 West Snow King Avenue 'Free America' protests on July 4 The events follow other nationwide protests against the Trump administration and its policies organized by the 50501 Movement (50 protests, 50 states, one movement) and other groups since he returned to office in January. Women's March said on its website: "This July 4th, while the U.S. marks Independence Day, we'll gather across the country—on porches, in town squares, backyards, and streets—to stand for real freedom and build a vision of a Free America brick by brick. "Free America is wherever we are. Free America is whatever we make it. Host or join a July 4th Free America action—rallies, BBQs, marches, art builds, community block parties, and more to celebrate real freedom." ALSO READ: Melania should be on first boat: Deportation calls for US' First Lady gains traction amid Trump's immigration crackdown Free America events are scheduled to take place across the country over the July Fourth weekend. Some local chapters of Indivisible have also planned "No Kings 2.0" protests for July 4, reports NewsWeek. In addition to the "Free America" events, some local chapters of Indivisible have planned "No Kings 2.0" protests for July 4. The protests will be followed by another day of nationwide demonstrations—billed as "Good Trouble Lives On," a reference to the late congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis—on July 17. "Good Trouble Lives On" is a national day of action to respond to the attacks on our civil and human rights by the Trump administration," according to organizers.
Economic Times
01-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
US job market in trouble? Starbucks, Google, Frito-Lay and more hit with brutal layoffs in July
Why are the layoffs being announced? Live Events Kroger plans to close 60 US stores Retail market experiencing 'distressed behaviour' (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The layoff season will continue will July with thousands of employees across various sectors will be fired this month in the United States. Roughly 95 employers plan to lay off workers in July, according to reports NewsWeek. But companies are needed to send out a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notice before implementing mass industries, including retail, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, health care, package delivery and more will announce layoffs in July. Though the number of employees to be laid off varies from company to company, it can be drastic at some firms such as Microsoft where between 1,000 and 2,500 workers are expected to lose their jobs in United States economy is responding to governmental actions, including the imposition of widespread tariffs on countries worldwide and a decline in consumer sentiment. Layoffs may not directly correlate to the current economic climate, as some companies strive to maximize profits at the behest of the broader workforce. Others attempt to better fulfill demand, the report StudentUnited States Cellular CorporationLaCroixHSNChevronBerry GlobalPrimo BrandsUPSGalion Pointe Nursing & RehabABM IndustriesAtco Rubber ProductsMortech Manufacturing CompanyMedStar Mobile HealthcareBarrette Outdoor LivingINOAC Exterior SystemsUnitek Learning Education GroupS&S ActivewearAtria Wealth SolutionsStarbucksC&S Wholesale GrocersCortevaSSB Manufacturing CompanyGoogleFedExLamps PlusSurfair MobilityAmerican Institutes of ResearchAmazonFoot Locker10x GenomicsVigor AlaskaKratonL.A. TurbineAir Distribution TechnologiesAnthony InternationalCVSCollege Success FoundationColosseum AthleticsDufry by AvoltaMuseum of Ice CreamGroundGame HealthReyes Coca-Cola BottlingLakeshore Learning MaterialsFrito-LayGenentechIsland Peer Review OrgEagle HealthcareTechnology PartnerWells FargoMulligan SecurityTransAxleTruvant North AmericaCollins AerospacePMAB-5Revlon Consumer ProductsNavitorWIOSS AtlantaLewis Tree ServiceF&S Produce WestSix Flags Entertainment CorporationPivot BioTend Exchange Subsidiary/Delaware Tender StaffingEikon TherapeuticsCoronado Stone ProductsSilgan Containers Manufacturing CorporationAllergan AestheticsPaneraMain Street ManorWaste Harmonics KeterGlobe MotorsCrothall HealthcareMorrison HealthcareNFI IndustriesTom Thumb StoreAdvanced Pressure TechnologyVirginia Mason Franciscan Health Virtual ServicesEnd of Sandwich Tavern RestaurantRemote WorkersPowinAll-Rite LeasingRTXSummit BHC New JerseyGEODISMenzies AviationJai'sGTM Discount General StoreBridgestone TiresSaddle Creek CorporationLiberty Residential ServicesThe Fresh MarketSpreckels Sugar CompanyAmerican Contract SystemsCornerstone Chemical CompanyU-Line CorporationKroger plans to close around 60 US grocery stores over the next 18 months to improve efficiency. The Cincinnati, Ohio-based company announced the plan during a corporate earnings call last Friday but has not stated which stores it plans to close. Kroger is the nation's largest supermarket chain, with 2,731 stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia. It operates stores under multiple brand names, including Smith's, Ralphs, King Soopers and Fred said the closures will happen around the country, adding employees at impacted stores will be offered jobs at other locations. 'We see this as an opportunity to move these closed store sales to other stores, and we think that should improve profitability,' Kroger's interim Chairman and CEO Ronald Sargent said during the also said Kroger plans to open at least 30 stores this year and will accelerate its store openings in 'high-growth geographies' next an October 2024 earnings announcement, Walgreens CEO Tim Wentworth announced the intended closure of 1,200 stores, with the first 500 closures scheduled for the first fiscal year as part of a new footprint optimization strategy."We will continue to execute our previously announced turnaround plan aimed at stabilizing the retail pharmacy, including our footprint optimization program," the company told Newsweek. "Increased regulatory and reimbursement pressures are weighing on our ability to cover the costs associated with rent, staffing, and supply needs."It is never an easy decision to close a store, and we know how important they are to the communities we serve and therefore do everything possible to improve their performance. When closures are necessary, we will work in partnership with community stakeholders to minimize customer disruptions."While retail sales figures remain relatively stable, signs of consumer caution are beginning to surface, especially among higher-income households, according to industry experts. Mark Mathews, executive director of research at the National Retail Federation (NRF), told Newsweek that some consumers are still willing to spend, but the retail market beyond top-line growth is experiencing some "distressed behavior."'We're seeing an uptick in higher-income consumers shopping at discount and off-price retailers,' Mathews said. 'This kind of trading down is a signal of distress beneath the surface. Shoppers are clearly becoming more cautious—they're seeking out sales, promotions, and better value.'Mathews emphasized that although top-line sales figures have yet to decline, consumer sentiment is beginning to impact spending patterns. 'The shift isn't dramatic yet, but it reflects growing economic anxiety.'Ben Johnston, Chief Operating Officer at small business lender Kapitus, echoed similar sentiment, noting that the wave of optimism seen at the start of the year has faded.'Our clients are staying financially responsible,' Johnston explained. 'They're still borrowing for everyday business operations, but they're avoiding risky growth investments. Most are taking a wait-and-see approach, especially with uncertainties around tariffs and the broader economic outlook heading into the fall.'Together, the insights point to a retail market that, while stable on the surface, may be entering a more cautious phase as both consumers and business owners brace for potential economic shifts.
