Zara owner Inditex has reassured investors with a strong start to the summer season, reporting currency-adjusted sales growth of 11.5% in May, well above analysts’ expectations of 8%. The performance comes despite weaker consumer confidence and economic uncertainty linked to rising inflation concerns and geopolitical tensions. The retailer’s shares climbed as much as 5%
Universal Music Group has rejected a $64.3 billion takeover proposal from billionaire investor Bill Ackman’s firm, Pershing Square, stating that the offer significantly undervalues the company. Universal’s board said the bid was not in the best interests of shareholders, artists, employees, fans, or other stakeholders, reaffirming confidence in the company’s long-term
Minnesota-based Phillips Distilling Company has moved part of its production to Canada after a widespread boycott of American-made alcohol by Canadian provinces severely impacted its business. The company lost around 70% of its Canadian sales following restrictions introduced in response to U.S. tariffs, with its popular Sour Puss liqueur being among the hardest-hit
Estée Lauder and Spanish perfumery Puig have officially ended their merger talks, a decision that sent Estée Lauder shares soaring over 10% in extended trading. The proposed deal, first disclosed in March, would have created a massive $40 billion luxury beauty conglomerate combining brands like Clinique and MAC with Charlotte Tilbury and Carolina Herrera. However, […]
Global spirits giant Pernod Ricard and American whiskey producer Brown-Forman, best known for Jack Daniel’s, have confirmed they are in discussions over a potential merger. The move would combine the world’s second-largest spirits company with a leading U.S. whiskey maker, as both firms navigate a prolonged slowdown in alcohol sales. While Brown-Forman’s shares rose
Prada has officially acquired Versace in a landmark deal worth $1.38bn (£1.04bn), bringing two iconic Italian luxury labels under one umbrella. The purchase price is significantly lower than the nearly $2bn paid by Versace’s former owner, Capri Holdings, in 2018. With this acquisition, Prada strengthens its portfolio—already home to brands like Miu Miu—as competition





