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.

In this episode of The Great Retail Debate, Martin Newman and David Boynton dive into the evolving world of retail loyalty. Using Selfridges’ innovative ‘Unlocked’ program as a springboard, they explore how brands are moving beyond traditional points-based systems to foster deeper customer connections through experiential rewards. The hosts also unpack what makes loyalty giants like Amazon and Apple so effective, and why storytelling is quickly overtaking performance marketing in the battle for customer attention. Tune in for a sharp take on the new age of brand loyalty.

In this inaugural episode of The Great Retail Debate, Martin Newman and David Boynton share their industry journeys and challenge the notion that 'retail is dead.' They explore the impact of rising costs, sustainability trends, conscious consumer behavior, and broader macroeconomic challenges. This episode sets the stage for a series of insightful discussions aimed at unraveling the future of retail.