Helen Le Caplain

Parents are increasingly starting back-to-school shopping earlier, comparing prices across retailers and using online shopping to manage rising costs. A SHEIN survey of 2,700 parents found that 92% believe school shopping is more expensive than two years ago, while 82% say higher living costs have changed their purchasing habits. Many spread purchases over time, seek deals and prioritize both quality and price; 74% say online shopping has reduced their expenses. The findings come amid broader cost-of-living pressures, including higher food and fuel bills and increased demand for food-bank support.

Aldi has launched a limited-edition range of ties featuring designs based on products including Bramwells baked beans, Nordpak butter and Professor Peppy fizzy drinks. The collection responds to research indicating that ties are returning as casual fashion accessories, particularly among Gen Z, with celebrities such as Zendaya and Harry Styles cited as influences. Shoppers can enter to win the ties by emailing Aldi before 11:59 p.m. on August 27, 2026.

A couple attracted attention in a UK park by using an Aldi leaf blower as an oversized fan during temperatures reaching 33C. Social media users humorously praised the idea as a heatwave hack. The stunt was part of Aldi’s promotion of its garden range, including an electric leaf blower priced at £29.99 and scheduled to launch on August 13.

A survey of 2,000 UK residents found that excessive indoor heat is straining home life, disrupting sleep, productivity and social activities, and increasing irritability. Younger adults and Londoners report the highest levels of disruption. Many households remain poorly equipped to manage extreme heat, relying on cooling methods that often fail to provide relief. Psychological impacts, including reduced emotional resilience and conflict at home, were highlighted by behavioural experts. The study, conducted by home‑tech brand DREO, suggests that better indoor cooling could significantly improve wellbeing, daily routines and social time during summer.

A survey of 2,000 UK residents found kippers to be the most disliked kitchen smell, followed by burnt toast and cabbage, while fresh bread topped the list of favourite aromas. Many respondents reported arguments over kitchen odours and discomfort when smells linger at home or in shared spaces. NEFF highlighted growing interest in managing odours and promoted its Venting Hob and a limited-edition scent collection featuring both popular and unpopular smells.

Survey findings show women view maintaining daily routines while exhausted as a stronger test of strength than physical workouts. The research highlights a shift toward valuing mental resilience, adaptability and functional capability over appearance or athletic performance. Most respondents say their understanding of strength evolves through life stages, though many lack awareness of NHS muscle‑strengthening guidelines and struggle with practical barriers such as time and energy. Experts call for broader representation of functional strength and improved education, while Optimum Nutrition promotes products tied to recovery and performance.

Twelve men named Greg took part in a promotional taste test evaluating a Ginsters sausage roll on taste, texture and seasoning, with all participants giving it their approval. Panellists highlighted the product’s pastry, seasoning and use of British pork, while the company described the campaign as a playful validation of its recipe.