---
title: UK retail media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Non-Grocery Retail
period: 2026 year to date
coverage_start: '2026-01-01'
coverage_end: '2026-09-30'
date_published: '2026-10-04'
last_updated: '2026-10-04'
organisations: 10
articles_analysed: 18179
mentions: 12166
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/data.json
summary: Dunelm had the highest average monthly share of coverage (22.7%) among 10
  retailers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of
  Next (13.4%) and Primark (12.2%).
---

# UK retail media reputation tracker: 2026 year to date (1 January 2026–30 September 2026)

> Dunelm had the highest average monthly share of coverage (22.7%) among 10 retailers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of Next (13.4%) and Primark (12.2%). Dunelm had the most favourable net tone (+55). Omniscan analysed 18,179 articles containing 12,166 mentions of the retailers tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd

## UK Non-Grocery Retail ranking by share of coverage, 2026 year to date

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Dunelm | 22.7% | 2,836 | 59% | 37% | 4% | +55 |
| 2 | Next | 13.4% | 1,672 | 48% | 46% | 6% | +42 |
| 3 | Primark | 12.2% | 1,528 | 49% | 33% | 18% | +30 |
| 4 | Frasers Group | 12.0% | 1,347 | 27% | 52% | 21% | +5 |
| 5 | Debenhams Group | 10.6% | 1,277 | 56% | 34% | 10% | +46 |
| 6 | JD Sports | 8.1% | 975 | 35% | 30% | 35% | 0 |
| 7 | ASOS | 6.7% | 811 | 53% | 41% | 6% | +46 |
| 8 | Kingfisher | 6.2% | 766 | 38% | 47% | 15% | +24 |
| 9 | Currys | 6.0% | 705 | 58% | 33% | 9% | +49 |
| 10 | Pets at Home | 2.0% | 249 | 41% | 50% | 9% | +32 |

## Monthly share of coverage, UK Non-Grocery Retail

| Organisation | January 2026 | February 2026 | March 2026 | April 2026 | May 2026 | June 2026 | July 2026 | August 2026 | September 2026 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Dunelm | 28.1% | 29.5% | 27.9% | 34.4% | 26.9% | 15.2% | 13.5% | 13.2% | 15.2% |
| Next | 19.2% | 13.0% | 16.8% | 13.3% | 14.4% | 8.4% | 10.6% | 15.9% | 9.1% |
| Primark | 16.2% | 8.9% | 13.3% | 16.1% | 8.2% | 11.0% | 12.4% | 7.7% | 16.3% |
| Frasers Group | 4.8% | 6.6% | 7.1% | 7.2% | 5.8% | 20.5% | 22.9% | 21.1% | 12.1% |
| Debenhams Group | 10.1% | 14.4% | 10.7% | 9.4% | 6.7% | 15.8% | 9.7% | 7.2% | 11.3% |
| JD Sports | 7.1% | 5.1% | 3.4% | 5.4% | 9.8% | 5.8% | 7.4% | 16.5% | 12.1% |
| ASOS | 4.6% | 13.2% | 5.7% | 5.5% | 7.6% | 6.5% | 5.9% | 5.3% | 6.3% |
| Kingfisher | 3.5% | 5.8% | 7.9% | 4.8% | 9.0% | 6.8% | 4.0% | 5.3% | 8.9% |
| Currys | 4.4% | 2.8% | 4.8% | 3.2% | 7.1% | 9.1% | 10.9% | 5.5% | 6.7% |
| Pets at Home | 2.0% | 0.5% | 2.5% | 0.7% | 4.6% | 0.8% | 2.7% | 2.4% | 2.0% |

## Retailers in detail

### Dunelm

**Dunelm’s early lead broadens into a strategic story**

Dunelm ranked 1st of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (22.7%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 2,836 mentions and a net tone of +55.

Dunelm ranked first for both pooled and average monthly share, accounting for 23.3% of tracked-company mentions across January to September and averaging 22.7% by month. It led the cohort throughout the first five months, reaching 34.4% in April, before falling to third in June, second in July, fourth in August and second again in September. Product ranges and value-led promotions supplied the largest and most consistent strand, spanning rechargeable lighting, seasonal collections, discounted furniture and lower-cost alternatives to premium homeware. Trading reports added a more challenging corporate narrative, from January’s subdued Christmas update and February’s lower first-half profit to April’s softer March trading. Digital coverage developed from the launch of Dunelm’s mobile app in February to the Ask Dunelm shopping assistant in August, alongside rising digital participation reported in July. Store expansion provided another strand through plans for Llandudno and Sprucefield and the June opening of a 34,000 sq ft Kingston superstore. Designer and seasonal ranges, including the Sophie Robinson collection, the Yinka Ilori collaboration and the autumn and Christmas collections, extended the product story beyond routine discount coverage. The recall of doorstops over possible asbestos contamination in May and June introduced a distinct product-safety issue, while June reporting also covered action against fraudulent cloned websites. September brought a broader corporate agenda as Dunelm reported flat annual pre-tax profit, softer early-year trading and a three-year plan covering approximately £100m of cost reductions, technology investment and store expansion. Across the window, Dunelm’s visibility moved from sustained leadership built largely on products and promotions towards a lower-share but more varied mix of trading, digital and strategic reporting.

Key messages:

- Dunelm accounted for 23.3% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #1-#4 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Product, Ranges & Brands and Pricing, Value & Promotions.
- Visibility peaked in April 2026 at 34.4%, compared with 13.2% in August 2026.
- January 2026: Reuters reported Dunelm’s warning that annual profit was likely to reach the lower end of market expectations after cautious spending and competitor discounting.

Leading themes:

- Product, Ranges & Brands: 48.6% of Dunelm's coverage (theme index 2.25, net tone +62)
- Pricing, Value & Promotions: 38.9% of Dunelm's coverage (theme index 3.27, net tone +63)
- Trading & Results: 7.1% of Dunelm's coverage (theme index 0.39, net tone −16)

Notable positive coverage:

- 22 January 2026, idealhome.co.uk: [Dunelm's new fridge organisers are a must-have for tidy homes](https://www.idealhome.co.uk/house-manual/storage-organisation-decluttering/new-dunelm-fridge-organisers-2026). Dunelm has launched a range of affordable fridge organisers, including food containers, wine holders and storage baskets. The article says the products are selling quickly and praises their usefulness for home organisation.
- 28 January 2026, idealhome.co.uk: [Dunelm just dropped a unique rechargeable lighting range – I’ve never seen wireless lamps like these for under £40](https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/dunelm-flexicell-rechargeable-lighting-spring-summer-2026). Dunelm has launched its FlexiCell rechargeable lighting range, including interchangeable-shade table lamps, wall lights and a floor lamp. Products are positioned as flexible, affordable wireless lighting, with prices starting at £6 for shades and £28 for lamp bases.
- 9 February 2026, retail-week.com: [Dunelm strengthens executive team with two new appointments](https://www.retail-week.com/home-and-diy/dunelm-strengthens-executive-team-with-two-new-appointments/7050527.article). Dunelm has appointed Laura Harricks as chief customer officer and Caroline Angell as chief people officer. CEO Clo Moriarty said the hires will support the retailer's customer focus and growth plans.

Notable negative coverage:

- 15 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Dunelm reveals subdued Christmas trading set to hold back profit growth](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/dunelm-wandsworth-london-press-association-b2900995.html). Dunelm reported Q2 sales growth of 1.6%, down from 6.2% in Q1, and said full-year profit would be toward the lower end of its £214m-£227m forecast range. Its shares fell 18%, while digital sales represented 42% of Christmas-period sales and further superstore openings remain planned.
- 15 January 2026, reuters.com: [UK's Dunelm plunges on warning that cautious consumer spending will hurt profits](https://www.reuters.com/business/uks-dunelm-expects-annual-profit-lower-end-market-view-2026-01-15/). Dunelm warned that full-year profit is likely to reach the lower end of market expectations after cautious consumer spending and competitor discounting affected second-quarter trading. First-half sales rose 3.6% to £926 million, while its shares fell sharply.
- 15 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Stocks in green as US manufacturing surprises](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/aim-foxtons-london-dunelm-schroders-b2901391.html). Dunelm shares fell 20% after it reported softer-than-expected second-quarter trading. First-half sales rose 3.6% to £926m, but the retailer expects 2026 pre-tax profit at the lower end of the £214m-£227m consensus range.

- [Dunelm deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=dunelm&view=deep-dive)
- [Dunelm PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/dunelm.pdf)

### Next

**Results, acquisitions and store investment sustain Next’s second place**

Next ranked 2nd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (13.4%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 1,672 mentions and a net tone of +42.

Next recorded 1,672 measured mentions from January to September, ranking second on both its 13.4% average monthly share and 13.7% pooled share of tracked-company mentions. Its position nevertheless varied markedly, from second place and 19.2% in January to sixth and 8.4% in June, before another sixth-place finish at 9.1% in September. The strongest visibility coincided with substantive corporate news: January combined upgraded profit expectations with the Russell & Bromley acquisition, while March paired annual results with plans for a £307m logistics investment. Results remained a recurring strand, including first-quarter sales ahead of guidance in May, another profit upgrade in August and stronger-than-expected first-half trading in September. The corporate agenda also broadened through the launch of Cerene under Next, the Myprotein stockist agreement and reported interest in Harvey Nichols. Physical retail gained greater prominence in summer as Next prepared and then opened its 132,000 sq ft Bluewater flagship, alongside investment at Cribbs Mall. Product-led shopping coverage supplied continuity between these corporate episodes, spanning seasonal fashion, homeware and beauty ranges. Policy and workforce questions became more prominent from May, when Lord Wolfson addressed entry-level employment and labour costs, and continued through September’s equal-pay appeal and Budget interventions. June’s lower 8.4% share came during a product-heavy month with fewer major results or transaction stories, while August’s recovery to 15.9% coincided with trading, leadership and store developments. Overall, Next’s second-place year-to-date position rested on a combination of repeated financial updates, acquisition and partnership activity, estate investment and a persistent flow of consumer product coverage.

Key messages:

- Next accounted for 13.7% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #2-#6 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Product, Ranges & Brands and Trading & Results.
- Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 19.2%, compared with 8.4% in June 2026.
- January 2026: Next acquired Russell & Bromley’s brand assets and intellectual property from administration for £2.5m, reported by WWD.

Leading themes:

- Product, Ranges & Brands: 40.8% of Next's coverage (theme index 1.58, net tone +59)
- Trading & Results: 19.6% of Next's coverage (theme index 1.32, net tone +67)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 12.7% of Next's coverage (theme index 0.8, net tone +17)

Notable positive coverage:

- 6 January 2026, theguardian.com: [JLR sales hit by cyber attack disruption and tariffs; Next beats Christmas expectations - business live](https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2026/jan/06/jlr-sales-hit-by-cyber-attack-next-beats-christmas-sales-expectations-uk-services-sector-stock-market-business-live). Business live coverage reports that JLR sales were disrupted by a cyber attack and US tariffs. The article also says Next beat Christmas trading expectations.
- 6 January 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [Next expects profits to top £1.1bn after bumper festive sales](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/next-expects-profits-top-1-080259380.html). Next raised its annual profit forecast by £15m to £1.15bn after UK sales rose 5.9% in the nine weeks to 27 December and its end-of-year sale outperformed expectations. It expects slower growth in 2026 because of pressure on UK employment and consumer spending.
- 6 January 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [Next impresses as FTSE 100 rockets to fresh high](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/next-impresses-ftse-100-rockets-172709586.html). Next reported full-price sales growth of 11% in the nine weeks to 27 December, driven by UK online and international sales. It raised financial 2026 pretax-profit guidance by £15m to £1.15bn.

Notable negative coverage:

- 26 March 2026, belfasttelegraph.co.uk: [Next reveals £15m cost hit from Iran war and warns prices may need to rise](https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/uk-world/next-reveals-%C2%A315m-cost-hit-from-iran-war-and-warns-prices-may-need-to-rise/a/144536015.html). Next has set aside £15m to cover higher fuel and air-freight costs arising from the Iran conflict and shipping disruption. It warned prices could rise if the conflict is prolonged.
- 2 January 2026, sharecast.com: [London open: Stocks start 2026 on a high note](https://www.sharecast.com/news/market-report-opening/london-open-stocks-start-2026-on-a-high-note--21445821.html). The market report says investors are awaiting Next's retail earnings update as an indicator of Christmas consumer spending. An analyst expects a challenging final quarter for Next, citing weaker consumer spending ahead of the November budget.
- 23 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [New Lidl's £13 'stylish' item similar to £70 Next version out Sunday](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/shopping-deals/new-lidls-13-stylish-dining-37692345). Lidl launched a £12.99 rug presented as a lower-cost alternative to a similar £70 Shabby Chic by Rachel Ashwell rug sold by Next. The article compares the products' design, materials and prices.

- [Next deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=next&view=deep-dive)
- [Next PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/next.pdf)

### Primark

**Demerger and delivery plans reshaped Primark’s media profile**

Primark ranked 3rd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (12.2%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 1,528 mentions and a net tone of +30.

Primark recorded 1,528 mentions from January to September, ranking third by both its 12.2% average monthly share and 12.6% pooled share of tracked-company mentions. Its competitive position varied markedly, moving between fifth place in February, May and August and first place in September. The early agenda combined weaker festive trading and a possible separation from Associated British Foods with the largest activewear collection, a planned Wimbledon store and Middle East expansion. March’s recovery to third place coincided with Eoin Tonge’s permanent appointment, the Epsom opening and the adaptive swimwear launch. Primark reached second place in April as reporting centred on the confirmed demerger, its first UK customer app, the planned Manhattan flagship and the Shockingly Chic campaign. Visibility receded to fifth in May despite coverage of the flagship opening, sensory-friendly shopping hours and debate about home delivery. June and July brought a steadier competitive position alongside finance and design appointments, further store plans, quarterly trading, the second By Coleen collection and permanent price reductions across hundreds of products. August returned Primark to fifth place while articles covered US expansion, clothing repairs, heatwave-related footfall pressure and the UK arrival of Inditex’s Lefties. September combined first place and a 16.3% share with extensive reporting on the decision to introduce home delivery and acquire a £90 million Sheffield fulfilment facility. The closing agenda also extended beyond digital delivery through the opening of Primark’s 500th store, the Bahrain opening and a long-term recycled-polyester agreement with Circ.

Key messages:

- Primark accounted for 12.6% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #1-#5 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Product, Ranges & Brands and Stores, Property & High Street.
- Visibility peaked in September 2026 at 16.3%, compared with 7.7% in August 2026.
- January 2026: Primark reported weaker-than-expected festive trading and increased markdowns — independent.co.uk.

Leading themes:

- Product, Ranges & Brands: 27.1% of Primark's coverage (theme index 0.97, net tone +79)
- Stores, Property & High Street: 19.2% of Primark's coverage (theme index 2.25, net tone +51)
- Trading & Results: 15.8% of Primark's coverage (theme index 1.02, net tone −56)

Notable positive coverage:

- 6 January 2026, theindustry.fashion: [Primark launches biggest ever activewear range and introduces ‘Performance Beauty’](https://www.theindustry.fashion/primark-launches-biggest-ever-activewear-range-and-introduces-performance-beauty/). Primark has launched its largest activewear collection to date, comprising 240 products, alongside a new Performance Beauty skincare range. The range is available in UK stores and click and collect, with dedicated Performance areas being rolled out across 72 stores.
- 6 January 2026, drapersonline.com: [Primark launches biggest ever activewear range](https://www.drapersonline.com/news/primark-launches-biggest-ever-activewear-range). Primark has launched its largest activewear collection, comprising 240 products across womenswear, menswear and kidswear. The range introduces technical fabrics, accessories and beauty products, supported by a Rita Ora campaign.
- 7 January 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [Primark rolls out biggest activewear collection](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/01/primark-activewear-range/). Primark has launched its largest-ever 240-piece activewear collection across womenswear, menswear and kidswear, with prices starting at £2.50. The range will be available in all stores and through UK click and collect.

Notable negative coverage:

- 8 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Primark owner warns over profits after disappointing festive sales](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/primark-shares-competition-and-markets-authority-twinings-holly-williams-b2896675.html). Primark reported weaker-than-expected festive trading, with UK like-for-like sales up 1.7% and European sales down 5.7%. Increased markdowns to manage inventory reduced profitability, while AB Foods is reviewing a potential Primark separation.
- 10 January 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Zara's sister company Lefties looking to topple Primark](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15451649/Zaras-sister-company-Lefties-looking-topple-Primark.html). Primark's parent ABF issued a profit warning after European sales fell 5.7% in the final quarter of 2025, while UK sales rose 1.7%. The article says Inditex-owned Lefties plans UK stores and may intensify competition for Primark, which is also seeking a new chief executive.
- 8 January 2026, proactiveinvestors.com.au: [ABF shares tumble as Primark stumbles at start of new year](https://www.proactiveinvestors.com.au/companies/news/1085332/abf-shares-tumble-as-primark-stumbles-at-start-of-new-year-1085332.html). Primark reported weaker-than-expected sales growth at the start of its financial year and increased markdowns to clear stock, pressuring profitability. UK trading improved, but weak European and US demand led ABF to lower its group profit outlook.

- [Primark deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=primark&view=deep-dive)
- [Primark PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/primark.pdf)

### Frasers Group

**Takeover agenda lifts Frasers from sixth to summer leadership**

Frasers Group ranked 4th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (12.0%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 1,347 mentions and a net tone of +5.

Frasers Group ranked fourth across January to September, with 12.0% average monthly share and 11.1% of pooled tracked-company mentions. The difference reflects its exceptional visibility in the lower-volume summer market, when it led the cohort for three consecutive months. Coverage began with Frasers in sixth place as House of Fraser closures, GAME’s retreat from standalone stores and the integration of Sports Direct membership into Frasers Plus shaped the agenda. European expansion then came forward through the majority acquisition of Italy’s Maxi Sport, before March reporting centred on stakes in Puma and ASOS and the House of Fraser rebrand. April broadened the account through the purchases of York and East Midlands Designer Outlets, the Kingston Sports Direct opening and the launch of Ask Frasers. Its position nevertheless fell to ninth in May, when reporting was more dispersed across promotions, management changes, property options and a trademark appeal victory. June brought a decisive competitive shift as proposed takeovers of Hugo Boss and Accent Group coincided with a rise to first place and 20.5% share. Frasers remained first in July and August as Hugo Boss rejected the offer, the group crossed the German mandatory-bid threshold, disclosed a Burberry position and acquired Harvey Nichols. September’s share fell to 12.1% and its rank to joint third, although reporting continued to follow Frasers’ growing influence at Hugo Boss, including Michael Murray’s appointment as supervisory-board chair. Across the period, the profile moved from domestic store restructuring and digital integration towards a more concentrated international acquisition and luxury-control agenda.

Key messages:

- Frasers Group accounted for 11.1% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #1-#9 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Stores, Property & High Street.
- Visibility peaked in July 2026 at 22.9%, compared with 4.8% in January 2026.
- January 2026: Frasers Group’s integration of Sports Direct membership into Frasers Plus, reported by Retail Gazette.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 51.9% of Frasers Group's coverage (theme index 4.79, net tone +7)
- Stores, Property & High Street: 24.4% of Frasers Group's coverage (theme index 3.02, net tone −17)
- Pricing, Value & Promotions: 7.4% of Frasers Group's coverage (theme index 0.38, net tone +92)

Notable positive coverage:

- 16 January 2026, thetab.com: [A brand new Sports Direct has opened in Lancaster city centre](https://thetab.com/2026/01/16/sports-direct-store-opens-in-lancaster-city-centre). Frasers Group has opened a 7,000-square-foot Sports Direct store in Lancaster city centre, replacing former HMV and Select units. The store sells sportswear, footwear and accessories, and also brings USC and GAME products to the location.
- 16 January 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [Frasers Group integrates Sports Direct membership into Frasers Plus](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/01/frasers-plus-enhanced-offering/). Frasers Group will integrate Sports Direct membership into its Frasers Plus loyalty and credit-payment platform from February. The unified app will offer rewards, personalised offers and flexible payment options across the group and partner retailers.
- 16 January 2026, drapersonline.com: [Frasers Group to fold Sports Direct Membership into Frasers loyalty scheme](https://www.drapersonline.com/news/frasers-group-to-fold-sports-direct-membership-into-frasers-loyalty-scheme). Frasers Group will consolidate Sports Direct Membership into its Frasers Plus loyalty and credit-payment scheme. The integration will provide personalised offers and rewards across group brands and selected partners, although customers must apply and meet eligibility criteria.

Notable negative coverage:

- 9 July 2026, reuters.com: [Hugo Boss recommends shareholders reject Frasers' bid](https://www.reuters.com/business/hugo-boss-recommends-shareholders-reject-frasers-bid-2026-07-09/). Hugo Boss has recommended shareholders reject Frasers Group's €38-per-share takeover offer as inadequate. Frasers launched the offer to lift its approximately 26% holding above the 30% threshold requiring a full offer under German regulations.
- 27 September 2026, aol.ca: [Sports chain to exit high street branch as closing down sale launched](https://www.aol.ca/articles/sports-chain-exit-high-street-172200000.html). Sports Direct is closing its Birchwood Shopping Centre branch in Warrington, while another Evesham store is reportedly due to close. The article notes Frasers Group’s broader strategy of relocating sites and recent megastore expansion.
- 27 August 2026, expressandstar.com: [Andy Burnham’s plans to revive high street are ‘delusional’ – Mike Ashley](https://www.expressandstar.com/uk-news/andy-burnhams-plans-to-revive-high-street-are-delusional-mike-ashley-8946618). Frasers founder Mike Ashley said high-street businesses will be harmed unless business rates and employment costs are reduced. He also said store theft costs Frasers about £40 million annually.

- [Frasers Group deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=frasersgroup&view=deep-dive)
- [Frasers Group PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/frasersgroup.pdf)

### Debenhams Group

**Turnaround milestones and asset sales reshaped Debenhams Group coverage**

Debenhams Group ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (10.6%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 1,277 mentions and a net tone of +46.

Debenhams Group recorded 1,277 mentions from January to September, taking 10.5% of tracked-company mentions on a pooled basis and an average monthly share of 10.6%, ranking fifth by both measures. It opened in fourth place with a 10.1% share as reporting covered a higher £50m earnings outlook and the decision to retain PrettyLittleThing. February brought its first strong competitive advance, with share rising to 14.4% and rank improving to second; contemporaneous stories covered an oversubscribed £40m equity raise and a PayPal shopping partnership. Share then receded to 10.7% in March and 9.4% in April, while coverage included £53m adjusted earnings ahead of guidance, Richard Vanoli’s appointment and new product and technology leadership roles. May marked the weakest competitive position, at 6.7% and eighth place, alongside reporting on social-commerce checkout, a beauty-box launch and the Advertising Standards Authority ruling on Black Friday savings claims. June reversed that movement, reaching 15.8% and second place as annual results showed adjusted EBITDA of £53.3m, narrower losses and PrettyLittleThing’s return to profit. Visibility moderated through July and August, when stories ranged from World Cup-driven football-fashion demand and new Leicester supply-chain claims to Karen Millen’s return to physical retail and Boohoo’s French consumer-protection fine. September lifted share to 11.3% and rank to fifth alongside the £90m sale of Sheffield warehouse automation and reassignment of its lease, the Nasty Gal disposal, first-half earnings growth and board changes. Across the period, the news agenda broadened beyond recurring promotions and product offers into financing, profitability, asset disposals, regulation and the practical execution of the marketplace strategy. The competitive profile was uneven: higher-share months coincided with major corporate reporting, while lower-share months featured greater emphasis on retail offers and individual brand stories.

Key messages:

- Debenhams Group accounted for 10.5% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #2-#8 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Pricing, Value & Promotions and Product, Ranges & Brands.
- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 15.8%, compared with 6.7% in May 2026.
- January 2026: Debenhams Group raised its earnings outlook to £50m and retained PrettyLittleThing, reported by Reuters.

Leading themes:

- Pricing, Value & Promotions: 32.2% of Debenhams Group's coverage (theme index 1.95, net tone +63)
- Product, Ranges & Brands: 22.0% of Debenhams Group's coverage (theme index 0.77, net tone +63)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 13.5% of Debenhams Group's coverage (theme index 0.87, net tone +44)

Notable positive coverage:

- 10 January 2026, ok.co.uk: [Kate Middleton-inspired wool coat gets slashed to half price in Karen Millen sale](https://www.ok.co.uk/shopping/kate-middleton-inspired-wool-coat-36521986). Karen Millen is offering a wool-blend tailored coat for £230, reduced by 50% from £459. The article highlights the product's Kate Middleton-inspired styling and limited size availability in navy.
- 28 January 2026, reuters.com: [UK retailer Debenhams to keep PrettyLittleThing as turnaround lifts profit outlook](https://www.reuters.com/business/uk-online-retailer-debenhams-raises-annual-profit-forecast-2026-01-28/). Debenhams Group raised its annual adjusted core-profit forecast to about £50 million and will retain PrettyLittleThing after its turnaround improved profitability. The group is also pursuing sales of non-core assets to reduce debt.
- 28 January 2026, theindustry.fashion: [Debenhams hikes earnings outlook and decides to keep PrettyLittleThing](https://www.theindustry.fashion/debenhams-hikes-earnings-outlook-and-decides-to-keep-prettylittlething/). Debenhams Group increased its annual earnings outlook to £50 million and decided to retain PrettyLittleThing following its turnaround. The group said all brands are profitable while it continues to consider sales of other non-core assets to reduce debt.

Notable negative coverage:

- 20 August 2026, lse.co.uk: [France fines Boohoo €2.3 million over deceptive discounts on website](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/france-fines-boohoo-23-million-over-deceptive-discounts-on-website-rfgqk1nkwc8l1bl.html). France's anti-fraud agency fined Boohoo €2.3 million for deceptive website discount practices. The action comes amid a wider French crackdown on fast-fashion businesses.
- 20 August 2026, channelstv.com: [France Fines UK Fashion Site Boohoo Over Fake Discounts](https://www.channelstv.com/2026/08/20/france-fines-uk-fashion-site-boohoo-over-fake-discounts/). French consumer regulator DGCCRF fined Boohoo €2.33 million for deceptive pricing and product-description practices. The investigation found that 95% of reviewed advertisements were non-compliant.
- 21 July 2026, wwd.com: [Boohoo Legal Claims Over Sweatshop Scandal Rise to $329M](https://wwd.com/sourcing-journal/trade/boohoo-legal-claims-new-investors-london-1239076632/). Debenhams Group's Boohoo brand faces additional investor claims over alleged underpayment and unsafe conditions at Leicester supplier factories, taking total damages sought to £245 million. The group says it strongly contests the allegations.

- [Debenhams Group deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=debenhamsgroup&view=deep-dive)
- [Debenhams Group PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/debenhamsgroup.pdf)

### JD Sports

**Profit pressure and leadership change reshaped JD Sports’ profile**

JD Sports ranked 6th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (8.1%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 975 mentions and a net tone of 0.

JD Sports recorded 975 mentions from January to September, taking 8.1% average monthly share and 8.0% pooled share of tracked-company mentions, ranking sixth on both measures. Its position varied considerably, from ninth place in March and June to second in August. The opening profile combined Christmas trading pressure with plans for one-click purchasing through AI platforms and Michael Armstrong’s departure. Visibility weakened in February and March as coverage broadened across the £200m share buyback, JD UP careers event, Hip store closures, the Louis Theroux-fronted Nike campaign and new flagship investment. April’s recovery to joint sixth place was contemporaneous with Andy Higginson’s reported chair exit and the trial of the Jay online shopping agent. May brought a rise to third as annual results, lower profit expectations and UK and North American store closures received sustained attention. June and July featured the OTCQX listing, Hip’s move online, larger stores in Livingston and Meadowhall, and Darren Shapland’s appointment as interim chair. August produced the period’s highest share and second place alongside the reduced profit outlook, Peter Agnefjäll’s appointment as chair and the second £100m buyback tranche. September volume was unchanged at 196, while share fell as the tracked-company market expanded; stories included weaker first-half results, senior North American and marketing appointments, and the Grupo Axo agreement for Mexican expansion. Across the period, JD Sports’ profile alternated between concentrated scrutiny of trading and governance and a more varied account of digital commerce, brand partnerships, international expansion and store optimisation.

Key messages:

- JD Sports accounted for 8% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #2-#9 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Trading & Results and Leadership, Strategy & M&A.
- Visibility peaked in August 2026 at 16.5%, compared with 3.4% in March 2026.
- January 2026: JD Sports outlined one-click purchasing through AI platforms, reported by The Independent.

Leading themes:

- Trading & Results: 37.3% of JD Sports's coverage (theme index 2.73, net tone −63)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 21.8% of JD Sports's coverage (theme index 1.47, net tone +25)
- Stores, Property & High Street: 14.9% of JD Sports's coverage (theme index 1.57, net tone +19)

Notable positive coverage:

- 12 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [JD Sports reveals plans to enable shoppers to buy products through AI platforms](https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/jd-sports-press-association-chatgpt-stripe-microsoft-b2898587.html). JD Sports is partnering with Commercetools and Stripe to enable one-click purchases through AI platforms, beginning in the US. The retailer expects to consider expansion into other regions as regulations develop.
- 12 January 2026, wwd.com: [US Consumers Will Soon Be Able to Shop From JD Sports Directly on ChatGPT, Copilot + Other AI Platforms](https://wwd.com/footwear-news/shoe-industry-news/jd-sports-ai-commerce-chatgpt-copilot-1238451264/). JD Sports will let US customers search for and buy products directly through AI platforms including Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT and Gemini. The retailer is using CommerceTools and Stripe to support agentic commerce, with equivalent UK and European e-commerce platform roll-outs due in 2026.
- 12 January 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [JD introducing AI 'single click' purchase for US customers](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/01/jd-introducing-ai-single-click-purchase-for-us-customers/). JD Sports has agreed with Commercetools to enable direct one-click purchases through AI platforms, initially for US customers. The retailer says the initiative will improve customer experience and operational efficiency as it expands agentic-commerce capabilities.

Notable negative coverage:

- 23 September 2026, standard.co.uk: [JD Sports grapples with ‘tough’ consumer backdrop as sales weaken](https://www.standard.co.uk/business/business-news/jd-sports-north-america-nike-experts-b1298019.html). JD Sports reported lower first-half sales and a one-fifth fall in adjusted pre-tax profit, citing cost-of-living pressures, weak footwear launches and subdued demand. It said North America was particularly weak, though Asia Pacific sales rose and running and apparel showed momentum.
- 25 August 2026, proactiveinvestors.ca: [RBC warns on German consumer weakness, cuts H&M and JD Sports forecasts](https://www.proactiveinvestors.ca/companies/news/1097561/rbc-warns-on-german-consumer-weakness-cuts-h-m-and-jd-sports-forecasts-1097561.html?region=ca). RBC cut JD Sports earnings forecasts and its price target, citing weak German consumer demand, softer US footwear sales and plans to close around 40% of its German stores. The bank said Next could benefit from Germany’s shift to online shopping, while Primark needs to localise its German offer given its lack of online presence.
- 23 September 2026, reuters.com: [JD Sports first half profit hit by North American weakness](https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/jd-sports-first-half-profit-hit-by-north-american-weakness-2026-09-23/). JD Sports reported a 19.7% fall in first-half adjusted pre-tax profit and a 0.7% sales decline, driven particularly by weak North American trading. The group maintained its downgraded full-year earnings outlook.

- [JD Sports deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=jdsports&view=deep-dive)
- [JD Sports PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/jdsports.pdf)

### ASOS

**Topshop revival and turnaround milestones broaden ASOS coverage**

ASOS ranked 7th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.7%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 811 mentions and a net tone of +46.

ASOS recorded 811 mentions from January to September, ranking seventh on both its 6.7% pooled share of tracked-company mentions and 6.7% average monthly share. The close alignment between those measures indicates that differently sized monthly news cycles had little effect on its overall standing. Visibility began at 4.6% and seventh place in January, amid coverage of returns transparency, Topshop’s European website and the addition of Noughts & Kisses. February produced the high point of 13.2% and third place as Topshop entered John Lewis stores, while reports also covered the death of ASOS co-founder Quentin Griffiths. The share then fell to 5.7% in March, when reporting shifted towards higher first-half profit, Natasha Jeffers’ appointment and Topshop’s spring campaign. April and May combined turnaround reporting with the £67.5m Lichfield fulfilment-centre sale, a conversational shopping service and nine new menswear brands. From June to August, ASOS ranked eighth, jointly with Kingfisher in August, as rapid delivery with Deliveroo, property plans, leadership appointments and product collaborations provided a broader but less concentrated agenda. September volume rose by 39 mentions and share increased to 6.3%, although ASOS fell to ninth as the tracked-company news cycle expanded. Stories that month included a return to quarterly GMV growth, Law Roach’s appointment as stylist in residence and the launch of a 51-piece adaptive range. Across the period, ASOS’s profile moved from operational changes and Topshop expansion towards evidence of commercial recovery, fashion authority and a more curated customer proposition.

Key messages:

- ASOS accounted for 6.7% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #3-#9 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Product, Ranges & Brands and Online, Digital & Delivery.
- Visibility peaked in February 2026 at 13.2%, compared with 4.6% in January 2026.
- January 2026: ASOS introduced an in-app returns-transparency feature for UK customers — TheIndustry.fashion.

Leading themes:

- Product, Ranges & Brands: 30.3% of ASOS's coverage (theme index 1.09, net tone +68)
- Online, Digital & Delivery: 18.2% of ASOS's coverage (theme index 4.1, net tone +42)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 18.0% of ASOS's coverage (theme index 1.19, net tone +26)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 January 2026, drapersonline.com: [Fashion retail predictions 2026: Asos, Castore, Debenhams Group, Primark](https://www.drapersonline.com/insight/analysis/fashion-retail-predictions-2026-asos-castore-debenhams-group-primark). ASOS, Debenhams Group and Primark outline their 2026 strategies, covering profitability, product speed, marketplace expansion, AI, store investment and value. The article also includes Castore's plans following its acquisition of Belstaff.
- 5 January 2026, drapersonline.com: [Asos adds Noughts & Kisses to brand portfolio](https://www.drapersonline.com/news/asos-adds-noughts-kisses-to-brand-portfolio). ASOS will add Liverpool womenswear brand Noughts & Kisses to its marketplace portfolio at the end of the first quarter. The launch will comprise a 30-piece spring collection, with selected styles exclusive to ASOS.
- 6 January 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [Asos bolsters brand portfolio with Noughts & Kisses acquisition](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/01/asos-noughts-kisses/). ASOS will add Liverpool fashion retailer Noughts & Kisses to its online brand portfolio later in 2026. The partnership will launch with a 30-piece spring collection, including some ASOS-exclusive products.

Notable negative coverage:

- 20 February 2026, straitstimes.com: [Asos co-founder Quentin Griffiths dies in Thailand after balcony fall](https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/co-founder-of-asos-quentin-griffiths-dies-in-thailand-after-balcony-fall). ASOS co-founder Quentin Griffiths has died in Thailand following a balcony fall. The article notes ASOS's recent profitability pressures and competition from lower-cost Chinese rivals.
- 30 January 2026, walesonline.co.uk: ['My 'new' Nike trainers arrived filthy and used - then ASOS told me to get them dry cleaned'](https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/my-new-nike-trainers-arrived-33327073). A customer alleges that ASOS delivered used and dirty Nike trainers and offered dry cleaning or a return for inspection. She says she may stop shopping with the retailer; ASOS said it was contacting her.
- 28 August 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Nostalgic 90s high street store launched a makeover only to disappear again](https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/nostalgic-90s-high-street-fashion-37594059). Tammy Girl briefly relaunched through an exclusive 2022 capsule collection on ASOS, but the range is no longer available on the site. The article says no subsequent major collections have been announced.

- [ASOS deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=asos&view=deep-dive)
- [ASOS PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/asos.pdf)

### Kingfisher

**Results and digital investment reshaped Kingfisher’s year-to-date profile**

Kingfisher ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.2%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 766 mentions and a net tone of +24.

Kingfisher recorded 766 mentions between January and September, representing 6.3% of tracked-company mentions and eighth place overall. It began in ninth place with a 3.5% share in January, when stories covered Screwfix reaching 1,000 stores, B&Q’s planned standalone TradePoint format and Brico Dépôt Spain’s on-demand delivery partnership with Just Eat. Its share rose to 7.9% and fifth place in March, alongside annual results showing a 6% increase in adjusted pre-tax profit, the Google Cloud shopping partnership and the opening of the first standalone TradePoint store. April brought a retreat to 4.8% and eighth place, while coverage ranged from B&Q’s Tesco click-and-collect trial and Kingfisher’s marketplace strategy to seasonal promotions and product comparisons. Kingfisher then reached its strongest competitive position in May, taking fourth place with a 9% share as reporting addressed first-quarter trading, Thierry Garnier’s planned departure and Sophie Taylor’s appointment as B&Q marketing director. The share fell through June and July to 4% and ninth place, although stories continued around B&Q Marketplace growth, retail-media pilots, Screwfix’s delivery campaign and B&Q’s Cheltenham sustainability flagship. August recovered to 5.3% and joint eighth place with ASOS, with product-safety reporting led by B&Q’s table-fan recall alongside Screwfix’s appointment of Incubeta. September produced the highest volume, at 143 mentions, and an 8.9% share, moving Kingfisher from joint eighth to seventh; stories included upgraded profit guidance, strong Screwfix trading and B&Q’s inclusion in a government minimum-wage enforcement round. Across the window, the profile moved between consumer product and value stories, corporate results, store and trade expansion, digital investment and regulatory scrutiny.

Key messages:

- Kingfisher accounted for 6.3% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #4-#9 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Trading & Results and Product, Ranges & Brands.
- Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 9%, compared with 3.5% in January 2026.
- January 2026: Screwfix reached 1,000 stores across the UK, Ireland and France, reported by Retail Gazette.

Leading themes:

- Trading & Results: 21.4% of Kingfisher's coverage (theme index 1.41, net tone +49)
- Product, Ranges & Brands: 20.6% of Kingfisher's coverage (theme index 0.73, net tone +18)
- Pricing, Value & Promotions: 18.1% of Kingfisher's coverage (theme index 1, net tone −6)

Notable positive coverage:

- 21 January 2026, retail-week.com: [B&Q to open first standalone TradePoint concept store](https://www.retail-week.com/home-and-diy/bandq-to-open-first-standalone-tradepoint-concept-store/7050392.article). B&Q will open its first standalone TradePoint store in Barking in March, exclusively serving trade professionals. The concept supports B&Q's ambition to grow TradePoint into a £1bn business through expanded ranges, services and rapid fulfilment.
- 21 January 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [B&Q opening first standalone TradePoint store](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/01/bq-standalone-tradepoint/). B&Q will open its first standalone TradePoint store in Barking in March, aimed exclusively at trade professionals. The format is part of B&Q's strategy to grow TradePoint into a £1 billion business.
- 27 January 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [Screwfix hails 1,000 store milestone](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/01/screwfix-1000-stores/). Kingfisher-owned Screwfix has reached 1,000 stores across the UK, Ireland and France. The chain plans further expansion in the UK, Ireland and potentially France.

Notable negative coverage:

- 10 September 2026, reuters.com: [UK retailers stock charcoal linked to Paraguay deforestation, group says](https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/uk-retailers-stock-charcoal-linked-paraguay-deforestation-group-says-2026-09-10/). Global Witness alleged that charcoal sold by B&Q was linked to deforestation in Paraguay's Gran Chaco. B&Q did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.
- 16 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [New Aldi £5 cleaning tool kit similar to £56 B&Q version out Sunday](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/shopping-deals/new-aldi-5-cleaning-tool-37668526). Aldi is launching a £4.99 magnetic window cleaner compared with a similar £55.99 product sold through B&Q. The article highlights the substantial price difference while noting that both products are designed for thin or single-glazed panes.
- 3 September 2026, itv.com: [B&Q among firms named and shamed by government for not paying minimum wage](https://www.itv.com/news/2026-09-03/b-and-q-among-firms-named-and-shamed-by-government-for-not-paying-minimum-wage). B&Q was named by the government for underpaying £456,934 to 4,530 workers under minimum-wage rules. B&Q said the shortfalls were unintentional, related to geographical-allowance calculations, and were repaid in July 2025.

- [Kingfisher deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=kingfisher&view=deep-dive)
- [Kingfisher PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/kingfisher.pdf)

### Currys

**Results and leadership transition broaden Currys’ mid-year visibility**

Currys ranked 9th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.0%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 705 mentions and a net tone of +49.

Currys recorded 705 mentions from January to September, with a 6.0% average monthly share of tracked-company mentions and a 5.8% pooled share, ranking ninth on both measures. Its position was substantially stronger during the middle of the period: share rose from 3.2% and ninth place in April to 10.9% and fourth place in July. The early agenda combined January’s profit-outlook upgrade and strong Christmas trading with sales promotions, trade-in offers and the Hidden Treasure Hunt recycling initiative. Leadership then became more prominent when Alex Baldock announced his departure in March, followed by reports of his move to Boots and Currys’ appointment of Fredrik Tønnesen in June. May’s recovery to seventh place coincided with an upgrade to about £191m in adjusted pre-tax profit and the continuing succession story. June and July extended the stronger competitive position as reporting covered Tønnesen’s appointment, an 18% annual profit increase, a £50m share buyback and solid early-year trading. Operational developments also broadened the account, including a technology-leasing service for small businesses, Metapack’s appointment for UK and Ireland deliveries and the expansion of Currys Business hubs. Share fell to 5.5% and rank moved to seventh in August, when the agenda shifted from concentrated results and leadership reporting towards products, regulation, promotions and circular-economy activity. September volume rose to 108 and share to 6.7%, while rank moved to eighth; stories included 7% group like-for-like sales growth, World Cup television demand, heatwave-driven cooling sales and a campaign about reducing household waste. Across the window, the profile developed from promotion-led and trading coverage into a broader account of leadership succession, financial recovery, service expansion, delivery technology, sustainability and customer operations.

Key messages:

- Currys accounted for 5.8% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #4-#9 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Trading & Results and Pricing, Value & Promotions.
- Visibility peaked in July 2026 at 10.9%, compared with 2.8% in February 2026.
- January 2026: Currys raised its profit outlook after strong Christmas trading — Reuters.

Leading themes:

- Trading & Results: 24.4% of Currys's coverage (theme index 1.63, net tone +69)
- Pricing, Value & Promotions: 22.1% of Currys's coverage (theme index 1.23, net tone +63)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 12.8% of Currys's coverage (theme index 0.82, net tone +52)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Currys January sales 2026: Best deals and offers, picked by an expert](https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/january-sales/best-currys-january-sales-b2892607.html). Currys' January sale offers discounts across electricals and home appliances, including TVs, coffee machines, vacuums and personal-care technology. The article highlights a range of expert-reviewed deals and advises shoppers to act quickly on limited offers.
- 13 January 2026, gbnews.com: [Currys wants to buy your old TVs, and you can upgrade to something new with its latest deals](https://www.gbnews.com/tech/currys-buy-old-tvs-upgrade-sale). Currys is offering credit for customers who trade in old or broken TVs when upgrading to selected Hisense televisions. The trade-in credit can be combined with limited-time promotional discounts.
- 21 January 2026, retail-week.com: [Currys upgrades profit outlook following ‘very strong’ Christmas | News](https://www.retail-week.com/electricals/currys-upgrades-profit-outlook-following-very-strong-christmas/7050387.article). Currys upgraded its full-year adjusted profit-before-tax guidance to £180m-£190m after group like-for-like sales rose 6% during the 10 weeks to January 10. UK and Ireland revenue grew 3%, while omnichannel sales increased 11%.

Notable negative coverage:

- 13 March 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Currys warns prices could rise as AI boom pushes up chip costs](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15643801/Currys-warns-prices-rise-AI-boom-pushes-chip-costs.html). Currys chief executive Alex Baldock warned that prices could rise as AI-driven demand increases chip costs. He said the retailer was concerned about the potential for chip shortages.
- 21 September 2026, irishtimes.com: [‘At my wits’ end’: Currys customer’s new fridge-freezer stopped working within days](https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/09/21/kitchen-appliances-on-the-blink-leave-currys-customers-seeking-clarity/). Two Currys Ireland customers reported prolonged problems resolving faults with newly bought kitchen appliances, including poor communication and delayed repairs. Currys apologised, said both cases had been resolved and is reviewing their handling.
- 23 August 2026, express.co.uk: ['Scammers put me in £1,400 debt after taking out mobile contract in my name'](https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2241253/scammers-put-me-in-debt-mobile-contract). A customer says fraudsters opened an iD Mobile account in her name, resulting in debt collection action and a negative credit-file marker. iD Mobile confirmed the account was fraudulent and the marker was subsequently removed.

- [Currys deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=currys&view=deep-dive)
- [Currys PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/currys.pdf)

### Pets at Home

**Turnaround, expansion and insurance shaped Pets at Home’s visibility**

Pets at Home ranked 10th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (2.0%) in the UK Non-Grocery Retail benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 249 mentions and a net tone of +32.

Pets at Home recorded 249 mentions from January to September, representing a 2.0% pooled share of tracked-company mentions and a 2.0% average monthly share. Both measures placed the retailer tenth among the tracked companies, reflecting a stable competitive position despite substantial monthly variation. Its share ranged from 0.5% in February to 4.6% in May, while its rank remained tenth throughout. January coverage centred on price reductions across more than 1,000 products, improving retail volumes, veterinary growth and the relaunch of Pets Club Prices. March brought a broader corporate agenda, including a £3m investment in four locations, the launch of Ruff’s Recipes, the retail turnaround and the company’s response to the CMA’s veterinary-pricing proposals. May’s results generated the period’s highest visibility as articles examined weaker annual profit, improving fourth-quarter retail revenue and new chief executive James Bailey’s recovery plans. Subsequent coverage widened to the £50m share buyback, connected pet-care technology, national food listings, first-quarter revenue growth and Sarah Findlater’s appointment. August combined the pet-insurance launch with the Pet Pals programme reaching more than one million children. September coverage returned towards trading, regulation and leadership, alongside Phil Hackney’s appointment.

Key messages:

- Pets at Home accounted for 2% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #10 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Trading & Results and Product, Ranges & Brands.
- Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 4.6%, compared with 0.5% in February 2026.
- January 2026: Reuters reported that Pets at Home retained its annual profit forecast as price reductions affected quarterly revenue and veterinary operations supported profits.

Leading themes:

- Trading & Results: 45.4% of Pets at Home's coverage (theme index 3.04, net tone +17)
- Product, Ranges & Brands: 10.8% of Pets at Home's coverage (theme index 0.38, net tone +89)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 10.0% of Pets at Home's coverage (theme index 0.65, net tone +48)

Notable positive coverage:

- 31 March 2026, reuters.com: [UK's Pets at Home reaffirms profit forecast, expects sales growth revival at retail unit](https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uks-pets-home-reaffirms-profit-forecast-expects-sales-growth-revival-retail-unit-2026-03-31/). Pets at Home reaffirmed its annual profit forecast as its retail turnaround helped restore sales growth. Its veterinary division continues to support group profits following leadership changes.
- 1 April 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [Pets at Home says retail turnaround remains on track as full-year profit guidance holds](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/04/pets-at-home-says-retail-turnaround-remains-on-track-as-full-year-profit-guidance-holds/). Pets at Home said its retail turnaround is progressing, with volume and like-for-like sales growth, £20m in overhead savings and full-year profit guidance maintained. The group expects FY26 underlying pre-tax profit of about £92m and said the CMA veterinary-market report should not affect its growth plans.
- 22 April 2026, retailgazette.co.uk: [Pets at Home launches new dropship programme to widen online range](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2026/04/pets-at-home-launches-new-dropship-programme-to-widen-online-range/). Pets at Home has partnered with Rithum to introduce a dropship programme that will expand its online assortment and accelerate product launches. The initiative is intended to reduce inventory risk and support the retailer's wider digital transformation.

Notable negative coverage:

- 24 May 2026, independent.co.uk: [Pets at Home hoping for boost under new boss despite consumer pressure](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/waitrose-pets-russ-mould-data-office-for-national-statistics-b2982666.html). Pets at Home is expected to report a roughly 30% decline in underlying pre-tax profit to about £93 million, following weak discretionary demand and retail-arm pressure. The group has cut prices on around 1,000 products as it seeks to improve activity under new chief executive James Bailey.
- 27 May 2026, independent.co.uk: [Pets at Home profits slide amid price cuts](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/waitrose-press-association-b2984158.html). Pets at Home's pre-tax profit fell 28.3% to £86.5m as price investment and weaker retail sales pressured margins, while group revenue declined 0.8%. Its veterinary division grew revenue 5%, and management said retail turnaround progress had been made in the second half.
- 28 January 2026, sharecast.com: [Pets at Home sees FY in line as third-quarter revenue falls](https://www.sharecast.com/news/news-and-announcements/pets-at-home-sees-fy-in-line-as-third-quarter-revenue-falls--21562592.html). Pets at Home expects full-year profit to meet forecasts despite a 1.1% fall in third-quarter retail revenue and a 1% decline in group revenue. The article also notes proposed UK veterinary-price transparency rules and CMA measures following concerns over treatment costs.

- [Pets at Home deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd?entity=petsathome&view=deep-dive)
- [Pets at Home PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd/reports/petsathome.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Non-Grocery Retail editions

- [UK retail media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-h1.md)
- [UK retail media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-07.md)
- [UK retail media reputation tracker – August 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-08.md)
- [UK retail media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK retail media reputation tracker", 2026 year to date (1 January 2026–30 September 2026), published 4 October 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-retail-2026-ytd