By Professor John Bryson Department of Strategy and International Business, University of Birmingham It is important to appreciate that the ‘R’ number is critical here and any further increase in Birmingham’s ‘R’ number will result in an escalation in localised restrictions. Yesterday, I was reminded of April 2020. This seems such a long time ago. … Continue reading “COVID-19, the Domino Effect and Enhancing Pandemic Resilience across the West Midlands”
Tag: covid19
Goodbye Debenhams
By Dr Inci Toral and Dr Sarah Montano Department of Marketing, University of Birmingham Unfortunately, we are seeing the demise of the department stores such brands as Debenhams, John Lewis and House Fraser, due to the fact that as large organisations it is difficult for them to be agile and respond quickly to new consumer … Continue reading “Goodbye Debenhams”
COVID-19 bringing new life to dying high streets
By Dr Sarah Montano Department of Marketing, University of Birmingham COVID-19 has obviously had a severe impact on all businesses, from multi-nationals to independent, although the ONS states that there are signs of recovery with retail sales in June at near pre-lockdown levels. But how can independent businesses re-open and stay successful whilst maintaining social … Continue reading “COVID-19 bringing new life to dying high streets”
Primark’s recipe for success has become its Achilles heel
By Dr Emma Gardner Department of Strategy and International Business, University of Birmingham With over 370 stores in 12 countries, Primark has secured its position as a leading fashion retailer… Recent years have been tumultuous for the British high street. Numerous firms, such as New Look, Oasis and Warehouse have entered into administration, while … Continue reading “Primark’s recipe for success has become its Achilles heel”
COVID-19: Where to go for reliable and accurate data
By Dr Agnieszka Chidlow The Department of Strategy and International Business As strict lockdown measures are being put in place in countries around the world to minimise the spread and impact of COVID-19 on both health and economic systems, we all closely monitor, compare and contrast the data around the number of deaths, as well as … Continue reading “COVID-19: Where to go for reliable and accurate data”
Social Distancing: People are the Problem
By Professor John Bryson Department of Strategy and International Business, University of Birmingham I spent last weekend engaged in voluntary work in a churchyard. This location makes one reflect on the past, the future and Covid-19. From the churchyard, I observed human behaviour in adjacent streets, which I found troubling. I saw three types of … Continue reading “Social Distancing: People are the Problem”
The Challenge of Governance during a National Emergency
By Professor John Bryson Department of Strategy and International Business, University of Birmingham Who would want to be Boris Johnson, Chris Whitty or Sir Patrick Vallance? Who would want to take responsibility for the decisions that must be taken during these unprecedented times? These decisions must be taken rapidly and with partial information. It is … Continue reading “The Challenge of Governance during a National Emergency”
Covid-19 and the Economic Impact
By Professor John Bryson Department of Strategy and International Business, University of Birmingham The current mantra is that we are living in interesting or even crazy times in which everyday living is being turned upside down. During this time a handshake or a cough could result in illness, or even death, and widespread transmission of … Continue reading “Covid-19 and the Economic Impact”