By Sarah Montano, Professor of Retail Marketing Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham It’s the time of year when thoughts turn to that elusive Christmas wish list. One thing we do know will feature on many lists is toys. Whilst, we know that little ones will be anxiously waiting for Santa to deliver, we should … Continue reading “Toyland Triumphs: The Marketing and Popularity of Christmas Toys 2024”
Author: Guest Editor
Christmas Markets: A modern movie vibe and a time to socialise?
By Sarah Montano, Professor of Retail Marketing and Dr Inci Toral, Associate Professor Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham The arrival of a Christmas market in the centre of a local town or city heralds the countdown to Christmas! With the smell of mulled wine in the air, the temptation of a hot dog to … Continue reading “Christmas Markets: A modern movie vibe and a time to socialise?”
The sociology of ‘Friendsmas’ and the value of traditions
By David Bomark, Research Fellow Department of Social Policy, Sociology and Criminology, University of Birmingham One of my favourite Christmases was not spent with my family, as I would normally do, but was instead spent with friends. This was the first time I did not go home as I would usually do, but as my … Continue reading “The sociology of ‘Friendsmas’ and the value of traditions”
The UK Youth Guarantee: A leap forward or window dressing?
By Dr Sotirios Zartaloudis, Associate Professor in Comparative European Politics POLSIS, School of Government, University of Birmingham One of the major announcements of the new Labour government to improve the UK economy was the so-called “Youth Guarantee” whereby “every 18 to 21-year-old in England will get access to an apprenticeship, training or education opportunities or … Continue reading “The UK Youth Guarantee: A leap forward or window dressing?”
“Fierce as F**k, with Long Memories”: How Gregg Wallace Underestimated Women of a Certain Age
By Dr Julie Whiteman, Department of Marketing, Birmingham Business School As a middle-class woman of a certain age, it will be no surprise that I have plenty to say about the recent news of Greg Wallace’s alleged sexual misconduct. Co-host of the long-running TV reality shows Masterchef and Celebrity Masterchef, Wallace has been accused of … Continue reading ““Fierce as F**k, with Long Memories”: How Gregg Wallace Underestimated Women of a Certain Age”
Jaguar rebranding – A wilful controversy or a strategic misstep?
By Dr Achilleas Boukis, Associate Professor in Marketing Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham Jaguar’s recent rebrand video got everyone talking. Their bold and dramatic rebranding move signalled the long-expected transition to an all-electric future as well as sparked shock, excitement and a heated debate among branding experts, celebrities and marketers. Many experts long argue that … Continue reading “Jaguar rebranding – A wilful controversy or a strategic misstep?”
Save Our Shops: Can the High Street Survive the Latest Challenges?
By Sarah Montano, Professor of Retail Marketing and Dr Inci Toral, Associate Professor Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham Once again, the UK’s retail sector is facing challenges, as highlighted by protests and a letter signed by over 80 major retailers. Key measures, including a rise in National Insurance contributions, an increase in the minimum wage, … Continue reading “Save Our Shops: Can the High Street Survive the Latest Challenges? “
Bitcoin Booms Past $95,000: The “Trump Pump” Sparks Market Frenzy
By Dr Anandadeep Mandal Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham It’s official: Bitcoin has once again broken records, shattering the $95,000 ceiling after Donald Trump’s recent presidential election win, sending shockwaves across the financial world. The surge has been nicknamed the “Trump pump,” and for a good reason. Trump’s victory is sparking dreams of deregulation … Continue reading “Bitcoin Booms Past $95,000: The “Trump Pump” Sparks Market Frenzy”
Early release from prison – a simple solution to a complex problem?
By Dr Anna Kotova, Associate Professor in Criminology School of Social Policy and Society, University of Birmingham In September 2024, it was announced that a number of prisoners were set for earlier release, at the 40% point of their sentence as opposed to the 50% point, in order to relieve some of the overcrowding pressures … Continue reading “Early release from prison – a simple solution to a complex problem?”
Saoirse Ronan has a point – but independent travel is worse for girls and young women living in areas of high deprivation
By Dr Sarah Brooks-Wilson Department of Social Policy, Sociology and Criminology American-Irish actor Saoirse Ronan has a greater platform than most and her short remarks on the Graham Norton show recently have sparked widespread discussions about personal safety strategies that women regularly use. Although research evidence and crime data support the view that personal safety … Continue reading “Saoirse Ronan has a point – but independent travel is worse for girls and young women living in areas of high deprivation”