Self-service counters. Virtual try-ons. A loyalty program millions swear by. Sephora has redefined the way we shop for beauty. This week on The Great Retail Debate, Martin and David trace Sephora’s evolution, showing how its cosmetics shopping model built a blueprint for modern beauty retail. But with rising competition from local players and digital-first brands, can Sephora hold onto its crown?

In this episode of The Great Retail Debate, Martin Newman and David Boynton unpack the rise of Primark, exploring the brand’s laser focus on product and price, its surprising resilience in an e-commerce-driven world, and its bold choice to thrive without traditional advertising or online sales. They also examine the challenges ahead in the digital era and under new leadership, while posing one big question for listeners: is Primark the UK’s most underrated giant?

Martin Newman and David Boynton dig into one of Britain’s most storied retailers, asking what it really takes to stay relevant as the industry evolves. In this episode, they cover how Marks & Spencer has managed to modernize while remaining true to its identity, including everything from refreshed store formats to improved food and fashion ranges. The hosts also consider what other retailers can take away from its leadership approach and long-term strategy.

In this episode, Martin Newman and David Boynton discuss where Boots, a leading UK pharmacy and health retailer, has lost momentum and how it might regain its edge. They reflect on Boots’ legacy of consumer trust and a powerful loyalty program, while critiquing underinvestment and a weakening in-store experience. With health and beauty opportunities on the rise, the hosts outline how Boots could reassert itself—including smarter store formats, a revitalized loyalty strategy, and a stronger role in primary care.

Martin Newman and David Boynton take a closer look at UK retail powerhouse Next plc, tracing its journey from visionary roots to its rise as a multi-brand, multi-channel leader. The hosts explore how strong foundations and strategic leadership have driven Next’s lasting impact, while highlighting untapped potential in emotional engagement and the in-store experience.

This week on The Great Retail Debate, Martin and David chat about the human side of retail in an age dominated by technology. As AI and automation reshape the industry, they make the case for why people still matter most—on the shop floor, in leadership, and throughout the customer journey. Through personal anecdotes, they demonstrate how a people-first culture boosts brand perception and performance when every employee is empowered as a brand builder.

In this episode of The Great Retail Debate, Martin and David tackle the impact of e-commerce on traditional retail and the role of technology in providing seamless shopping experiences. They also address the challenges of sustaining profitability while balancing automation with human-centric services, and examine how omnichannel strategies and direct consumer engagement are key to building lasting loyalty in a rapidly changing landscape.

David Boynton and Martin Newman turn their focus to the UK government’s apprenticeship levy—what it was meant to achieve, and why it’s falling short. Introduced to boost vocational opportunities and upskill the next generation, the levy has been widely underused, with millions in funds returning to the government. The hosts call for a reevaluation of the levy and emphasize the need for stronger communication and collaboration between government, retailers, and educators to unlock its full potential.

This week on The Great Retail Debate, hosts David Boynton and Martin Newman delve into the controversial topic of large retailers pulling back from their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments. They highlight the importance of authenticity, purpose, and inclusivity for long-term business success—emphasizing that DEI should not be seen as a cost or compliance exercise, but as a fundamental business strategy that drives both commercial performance and employee engagement.

Martin Newman and David Boynton break down what sets exceptional retail leaders apart in today’s fast-paced world. It’s not just about profit margins—true leadership, they argue, lies in vision, adaptability, and a relentless focus on people. From empowering teams to navigating crises with clarity, they analyze the habits and mindsets driving the industry’s most effective leaders.