In today's top story, trade fair giant Messe Frankfurt has acquired South Africa-based trade shows Source Africa and ATF. Messe Frankfurt takes over from LTE, which has been in the trade show business for over 25 years. The move is expected to give the trade events global appeal using Messe Frankfurt's extensive network.

In other top news, the National Consumer Tribunal has found Shoprite guilty of reckless lending, and Woolworths top management will not receive Christmas bonuses as the retailer failed to achieve profit targets.

Iconic Danish toymaker Lego is also set to shed 8% of its global workforce after suffering its worst financial performance in over a decade. As a result, there are plans to overhaul the business, which will include building a smaller and less complex organisation and simplifying its business model in order to reach more children.

In more upbeat news, Adam Dembovsky from Innovation Factory explains the role of shop fittings in creating memorable customer experiences, and the Direct Selling Association of South Africa details why personal care & beauty is still the best performing sector in the direct selling industry, accounting for over 46% of the total sales during 2016.

September is Innovation Month at Bizcommunity, so keep an eye on our special section for news and interviews with innovative industry leaders.

Have a good week!

Lauren Hartzenberg
Retail Editor: Bizcommunity.com


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