The News In Brief
Uniqlo, Gymshark and Lush Stop Hiring UK Workers via Gig Economy Apps
Following union pressure over concerns that workers were being denied essential employment rights, the retail companies have stopped hiring freelance workers through apps like YoungOnes and Temper.
TikTok’s Live Video Feature ‘Groomed’ Minors, Utah AG Claims
A newly unredacted lawsuit reveals that TikTok has long been aware its livestream feature facilitated sexual exploitation of minors, money laundering, and even funded terrorism.
Laura Ashley Bought by US Owner of Ben Sherman
The British brand known for its floral fashion and home furnishings has been acquired by New York-based Marquee Brands, which plans to expand its lifestyle offerings while retaining the UK team and opening its first European headquarters in London.
Fire Devastates Ghana’s Kantamanto Used Clothing Market
The blaze late Wednesday dealt a huge blow to the secondhand trading hub, displacing thousands of traders.
UK Lawmakers Summon Shein and Temu for Questioning Over Labour Practices
The committee, chaired by former Labour minister Liam Byrne, is examining the government’s flagship employment rights bill in the context of protections for British workers.
Trouble in China’s Shopping Paradise as Hainan Duty-Free Spending Falls 29%
Shoppers visiting Hainan, known for its glitzy seafront hotels and sandy beaches, spent 30.94 billion yuan ($4.24 billion) on duty-free goods in 2024, local customs data showed on Thursday, falling 29.3 percent from a year earlier.
Designer Rosita Missoni Dies at 93
She launched the business in 1953 with her husband Ottavio Missoni, developing a brand which became popular for its colourful knitwear.
Rolex Hikes Watch Prices by as Much as 8% After Gold Surges
The luxury watchmaker has raised prices on select models, including those made from precious metals, by up to 8 percent in response to a 27 percent surge in gold prices in 2024.
US Dockworkers, Port Employers Set to Restart Talks Next Week
Contract talks between port workers and their employers will resume on January 7, aiming to avert a strike that could disrupt key East and Gulf Coast ports, with the key issue of semi-automated machinery potentially stalling progress.
Saks Finalises Acquisition of Neiman Marcus Group
The $2.7 billion merger counts Amazon, G-III Apparel Group and Authentic Brands Group as investors.
Model Rights Bill Signed into Law in New York
The new law will give models working in the state greater protection from exploitation, harassment and AI.
L’Oréal Acquires South Korea’s Dr.G in Skincare Deal With Migros
French cosmetics giant L’Oréal said on Monday it had agreed to buy Gowoonsesang Cosmetics, which includes South Korean skincare brand Dr.G., from Swiss retailer Migros.