As the cost-of-living crisis continues, the perception of value is shifting with ‘quality’ and ‘cost’ the most important factors for all consumers. This is changing how they engage with sales and discount events, and many Brits are expected to reduce festive spending on presents and parties this year in order to save money.
Retailers have responded to this shift in behaviour by limiting price increases on everyday purchases, and selectively using promotions on surplus inventory and seasonal items to manage customer perception and clear out excess stock. How successful have retailers been in their response?
Erin Brookes, Managing Director and Head of Retail & Consumer, Europe discusses the performance of the recent Black Friday sales as retailers try to balance managing value perceptions and profitability in this Retail Week article.
To learn about how we can help retailers, visit our consumer and retail pages and check out our latest report on changing consumer values. Or, contact us to see how we can help you transform your consumer and retail business.
European A&M Activist Alert
June 29, 2026
Shareholder activism has become one of the most influential forces shaping corporate strategy, capital allocation and value creation across Europe. In an environment where investors are increasingly willing to challenge management teams and boards, understanding activist priorities has never been more important.
A&M Activist Alert for Europe | Interim 2026 Report
June 29, 2026
As European corporates navigate economic uncertainty, shifting capital allocation priorities, rapid advances in artificial intelligence and increasing scrutiny of strategic decision-making, shareholder activism continues to evolve. While public campaigns remain an important tool, activist investors are increasingly seeking to influence boards behind closed doors, applying pressure privately while remaining ready to wield the “big stick” of acting publicly when necessary.
Activist pressure starts with underperformance
June 18, 2026
Shareholder activism is accelerating, and the root cause is consistent: sustained operational underperformance relative to peers. In a feature for CFO.com, A&M Managing Director Ron Orsini outlines a more disciplined path: close performance gaps early, build a credible value creation plan, and retain control of your strategy before activists define it for you.
Jay Frankl and Annie Peabody featured in The Deal’s Activist Investing Today Podcast
June 11, 2026
Jay Frankl and Annie Peabody discuss current M&A activism trends in The Deal’s Activist Investing Today podcast, highlighting insights from A&M’s US Activist Alert (AAA) report.
