UK: RETAILERS LOOK TO NEW PAYMENT METHODS

Article Abstract:

From spring 2000, following years of resistance, Marks & Spencer is to start accepting credit cards at its UK stores. However, the store along with other retailers, is looking ahead to future developments in card technology such as increased availability of smart cards and the possibility of converting loyalty cards into payment cards although potential problems with data protection need to be resolved before the latter can be developed. Over half the adult population of the UK have a minimum of one credit card and 18% pay their supermarket bill in this way. Also as e-commerce grows in popularity the fear of Internet fraud is encouraging consumers to pay for goods by credit card rather than debit card because of the added protection afforded to them. The new breed of smart cards with a built-in chip will be capable of storing a large amount of data and could reduce fraud as could the use of PINs at point of sale, although this would necessitate added hardware investment.

Strategy & planning, Market information - general, Retail Trade, Nonbank Credit Card Firms, Credit Card Issuing, Retail & services management, Personal credit institutions, Retail industry, Brief Article, Nonbank credit card services, Credit and debit card industry, Credit card industry

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Marks & Spencer implements an ethical sourcing program for its global supply chain

Article Abstract:

Marks and Spencer (M&S), a UK based retailer has stores all over the world, is concerned about the working conditions of the laborers in the different companies that manufacture goods for M&S. The M&S is putting in efforts to make the necessary changes wherever required and so they hope that they will be in a strong position to achieve the development goals set by them in the countries where they work.

Management dynamics, Public affairs, Ethics, Work environment, Ethical aspects, Company business management, Working conditions

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CANADA: WAL-MART DOMINATES DEPARMENT STORES

Article Abstract:

Wal-Mart is said to have become the largest department store chain in Canada. Wal-Mart is said to command some 31% of the Canadian department store market, somewhat higher than the 14% share that it held in 1994 when it initially entered the market via its takeover of Woolco. It has been predicted that this growth will continue in the year 2000, with the company increasing sales to US$ 6.7bn and its market share to 34%.

United States, Canada, New capacity, new plant construction, Labor force information, All Other Specialty Food Stores, Variety stores, Discount Stores, Wal-Mart Stores Inc., WMT

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