UK retail sales rose 0.8% on a like-for-like basis from October 2009, thanks to growth in food sales, according to the latest figures from the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor. 

The new contract will see DHL manage B&Q's Swindon distribution centre, as well as its regional consolidation centres, while safeguarding the company's operations in Worksop and Radlett. 

39% of garden centre visitors say they are likely to visit their local garden centre specifically for their Christmas areas and ranges, according to the HTA. 

GCA chairman Dennis Espley and Westland managing director Edward Conroy are offering 25 free places at the GCA annual conference in a bid to 'bring forward the future management of the industry'. 

'Business weather intelligence' provider Planalytics has revealed its forecast for retailers over the coming festive season. 

Half of British shoppers have no idea that the paper and wood products they are buying could come from illegal sources, according to new research from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). 

Retail footfall fell 3.4% last month compared with October 2009, according to the latest Retail Traffic Index from Synovate. 

Brits are a nation addicted to shopping, says BDO, with predictions that spending will continue in 2011, despite a challenging consumer environment. 

Consumer spending is set to increase at out-of-town shops by £14.7bn over the next four years, according to new research from Verdict. 

Best Buy UK has incurred operating losses of £29m for the six months to September 30, 2010, according to Carphone Warehouse, which launched the format with US giant Best Buy in April. 

Christmas sales already strong, with trees up 80% and John Lewis 'at home' in Poole exceeds trading expectations as it celebrates its first anniversary. 

Hardware and electrical store awarded top spot following Domestic & General survey of independent electrical retailers. 

Three more independent retailers have joined Home Hardware Scotland, bringing the total number of member shops across Scotland and the north of England to 56. 

Britain's Best Retailer Awards are now less than a week away so if you haven't yet booked your place you only have a few days left. 

DIY and gardening growth slows, with independents worst hit, while small domestic appliances report encouraging increases, up 7.4% on last year. 

Dame Ellen MacArthur joined Kingfisher ceo Ian Cheshire, B&Q ceo Euan Sutherland and Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change Greg Barker at the Houses of Parliament to learn more about how the retailer is helping consumers to make their homes more sustainable. 

Shoppers opt for glam decorations and speciality bakeware, with sales of vintage cake stands up 168% and silicone muffin pans seeing growth. 

The leading Danish furniture supplier has bought the trading activities of Harbo Fritid, further bolstering its position in the market following the acquisition of ATO Fritid just last week. 

Following success of previous 'at home' openings, retailer announces £15.5m investment and opening of outlets in Exeter and Chester, taking total number of stores to six. 

HSS Hire Service Group has reported a 14% increase in revenue to £44.6m for its third quarter.