The retailer produced half year profit of £30m despite recording lower shop footfall

Furniture retailer DFS nearly doubled its half-year profit despite experiencing reduced shop footfall as wet weather dampened sales throughout the retail sector. The London-listed business posted a £30m profit during the first half of this year, nearly double the £16m achieved the previous year, whilst revenue increased by 9% to £548m.

The adverse weather has been impacting sales across retail and hospitality businesses nationwide, as footfall to shopping centres declined by more than five per cent in February owing to exceptionally heavy rainfall. DFS achieved £735m in gross sales, up nine per cent from the previous year.

This half-year profit represents a remarkable recovery for the 57 year old business after it tumbled to a loss in 2024, highlighting an “extremely challenging” consumer environment as it struggled with disruption to Red Sea shipping, as reported by City AM. The business is rewarding shareholders with a 1p dividend, having not proposed one in its full-year results last September.

DFS stated it is reducing supply costs and adopting AI to enhance the customer experience and streamline its internal operations. The business revealed it is relying on exclusive partnerships with prominent brands, having unveiled a new collection with Britain’s Got Talent’s Amanda Holden in December.

The furniture seller intends to continue its recovery by investing in new Sofology stores – the sofa brand it operates – and growing in the home decoration sector. DFS thrives in ‘market stress’ Analysts at Panmure Liberum stated: “Despite a more uncertain macro backdrop, DFS now has more levers to drive share gains.

“Historically, the group has accelerated during periods of market stress, reinforcing confidence in its positioning.”

The broker anticipates DFS will generate £46m in pre-tax profit this year, increasing to £57m by 2028. The company maintained its £1.4bn full-year revenue goal despite acknowledging reduced footfall and “delicately balanced” consumer confidence.

These targets hinge on the firm experiencing no supply-term disruption due to the conflict in the Middle East, DFS noted – although it did not evaluate whether this is probable. DFS is listed on the All-Share market with its shares currently priced at 149.5p, representing a nearly 15 per cent decrease so far this year.

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American soccer icon Landon Donovan is set to release his long-awaited memoir, “Landon: A Memoir,” on March 24, 2026, offering an unflinching look at his storied career, personal battles with depression and the search for peace beyond the pitch.

The 344-page hardcover, published by Page Two Books, arrives just days from now after months of buildup from the retired U.S. national team star. Donovan, widely regarded as the greatest player in U.S. soccer history, announced the book on social media with the simple message: “This is my story.” Preorders are available through his official website, landondonovan.com, and major retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

“You may think you know Landon Donovan—but you don’t,” the book’s description reads. “As one of the most decorated players in US soccer history, he knows many recognize his greatest triumphs, but far fewer understand his deepest struggles. Behind the legendary #10 jersey and a dazzling career, he grappled with finding peace—both on and off the pitch.”

Donovan, 44, has teased the book’s contents in recent posts, emphasizing that it transcends typical sports autobiography. “This is much more than a soccer story,” he wrote on his site. “It’s a story about real life – my experiences with mental health, depression, growing up with a single mother and repairing my relationship with my father.”

The memoir promises 40 full-color photos and candid reflections on competition, failure and belonging. Donovan has described it as a blend of his rise through American soccer and the human challenges that followed, including mental health issues he kept private during his playing days.

Born in Ontario, California, Donovan burst onto the scene as a teenage prodigy. He joined Bayer Leverkusen in Germany at 16 before returning to the U.S. to star for the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer’s early years. He became the face of the league, winning six MLS Cups (three with the Earthquakes, three with the LA Galaxy) and earning MLS MVP honors twice.

Internationally, Donovan captained the U.S. men’s national team and holds records for most goals (57) and assists (58) in USMNT history. He played in three World Cups, scoring in each, including a dramatic last-gasp equalizer against Algeria in 2010 that sent the Americans to the knockout stage. His club stints included loan spells at Everton in the English Premier League, where he won fans with his flair and work rate.

Yet Donovan has long hinted at darker chapters. In interviews over the years, he spoke vaguely about burnout, the pressures of being “the American face of soccer” and moments of doubt. The memoir appears to delve deeply into those, including his well-documented struggles with depression that intensified after retirement in 2014.

Donovan stepped away from the game multiple times, including a brief sabbatical in 2012 and a final retirement after a short stint with the LA Galaxy in 2016. Post-playing career, he coached the San Diego Loyal in the USL Championship until the team’s 2023 fold and has remained a prominent voice in U.S. soccer through broadcasting and commentary.

Recent promotions for the book have included Donovan sharing first copies arriving and countdown posts. “First copies are here! I’m excited to see my book after all of the years of hard work,” he posted on Instagram and Facebook in early 2026. He has also appeared on the U.S. Soccer Podcast’s first live show, previewing the release and discussing his journey.

The book launch includes public events. Donovan is scheduled for an exclusive conversation and signing in Southern California, with one event set for April 2 and another discussion at the Coronado Public Library on April 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Fans can expect meet-and-greets and autographed editions available through select retailers.

The timing aligns with a renewed focus on mental health in sports. Donovan’s openness could resonate widely, following similar candid accounts from athletes like Simone Biles and Kevin Love. “The soccer side of it is a very unique story but the human side of it is very common,” Donovan said in a promotional video. “I think I’m in a place in the public eye where by sharing this, it might help others.”

Reviews and early reactions remain limited ahead of the on-sale date, but the memoir has already generated buzz among soccer fans and mental health advocates. Amazon lists it as a “must-read” for those interested in U.S. soccer’s evolution from niche sport to mainstream presence.

Donovan’s career helped elevate MLS and the USMNT during pivotal growth periods. He played a key role in the 2002 World Cup quarterfinal run and mentored younger generations. Off the field, his story of overcoming personal adversity adds depth to his legacy.

As March 24 approaches, anticipation builds for what Donovan has called his full, unfiltered account. “After a lifetime of playing this beautiful game, I’m finally ready to share my story,” he wrote. “The highs, the lows, and everything in between.”

With the release imminent, “Landon: A Memoir” stands poised to offer not just soccer insights but a raw examination of resilience, vulnerability and redemption—topics that extend far beyond the boundaries of the field.

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GameStop Corp. shares traded modestly lower in early trading on March 19, 2026, as investors positioned themselves for the retailer’s upcoming quarterly earnings report later this month. The meme-stock favorite closed at $23.36 on March 18, down 0.97% or 23 cents, on volume of approximately 3 million shares, according to market data from Yahoo Finance and other financial platforms. Pre-market activity showed the stock dipping further to around $23.22.

The price reflects a period of relative calm for GameStop (NYSE: GME) following a volatile start to the year. The stock has gained more than 16% in 2026 so far, outperforming many other meme stocks that have struggled amid broader market pressures on speculative names. Year-to-date, GME has risen from a 2025 close near $20.08, buoyed by persistent speculation around short squeezes and strategic moves by Executive Chairman Ryan Cohen.

Trading remained range-bound in recent sessions, with the stock fluctuating between roughly $23.26 and $23.80 over the past week. On March 17, shares rose 1.33% to close at $23.59, while March 16 saw a 1.06% decline to $23.28. Volume has averaged several million shares daily, below the frenzied levels seen during past meme-stock surges but still elevated compared to traditional retail equities.

Analysts and market watchers point to the March 24 release of GameStop’s fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results as the next major catalyst. The company announced the earnings date earlier in March, with results expected after market close and a conference call to follow. Expectations center on potential insights into the retailer’s cash position, which has swelled in recent years through equity offerings and conservative balance-sheet management.

Speculation has swirled around GameStop’s more than $7 billion in cash reserves, as noted in investor discussions and commentary across financial media. Some observers suggest the company could deploy that capital for acquisitions, share buybacks or other transformative moves under Cohen’s leadership. Cohen, who has increased his stake through recent purchases—including a notable block at an average price in the low $20s—has fueled talk of ambitious pivots, including unconfirmed rumors of potential deals in tech or consumer sectors.

Despite the optimism from some retail investors, Wall Street remains cautious. Analyst consensus leans toward a “sell” rating, with price targets around $13.50 in some forecasts, reflecting skepticism about long-term profitability in a shifting video game retail landscape dominated by digital downloads and streaming services. GameStop’s core business has faced headwinds from declining physical sales, though the company has experimented with e-commerce expansions, collectibles and cryptocurrency-related initiatives in the past.

The stock’s performance stands in contrast to peers in the meme category. While names like AMC Entertainment and others have posted losses year-to-date, GameStop has held gains, supported by a loyal online following and periodic short-interest spikes. Short interest data, though not dramatically elevated in recent reports, continues to draw attention from traders betting on volatility.

Market participants are watching for any pre-earnings momentum or surprises in the report. Options activity has shown mixed sentiment in recent weeks, with some moderately bullish flows noted alongside hedging positions. The stock’s 52-week range spans from about $19.93 to $35.81, underscoring its capacity for sharp swings.

GameStop’s evolution under Cohen has been a focal point since his involvement deepened several years ago. The former Chewy executive has emphasized efficiency, cost controls and potential reinvention beyond traditional brick-and-mortar gaming sales. The upcoming earnings could provide clues about progress on those fronts, including holiday-season performance in 2025 and any updates on strategic initiatives.

Investors also monitor broader market dynamics, including interest rates, consumer spending trends and competition in entertainment. While GameStop no longer commands the daily headlines of 2021’s short-squeeze frenzy, it retains a dedicated base and remains a barometer for retail investor sentiment.

As the March 24 deadline approaches, volatility could increase. For now, the stock hovers in a tight band, reflecting anticipation rather than immediate directional conviction.

GameStop did not immediately respond to requests for comment on current trading or earnings expectations.

The infrastructure proposed in a new business case could make the delivery of six new stations a reality

Six brand new train stations in south Wales have taken a major step forward after plans for infrastructure work needed to allow their development were submitted for approval. The railway upgrades between Cardiff Central and Severn Tunnel Junction are said to make the new stations “a reality”.

Network Rail Wales and Borders has submitted the full business case for the South Wales Relief Line Upgrade which will see increased speeds of up to 100mph, track infrastructure improvements and increased rail access.

The plans have now been submitted to the UK Government Department for Transport and will allow trains running on the relief lines between Cardiff Central and Severn Tunnel Junction to run at increased speeds.

READ MORE: Cardiff Airport sees rise in passengers but still behind pre-pandemic levelsREAD MORE: New Cardiff neighbourhood emerges at former Lansdowne Hospital site

The lines are currently being mainly used by freight services but the improvements would allow passenger services to also use them at no extra time. It would also mean freight trains could travel at increased speeds.

Work is necessary to allow the proposed development of up to six new stations, namely Cardiff East, Newport West, Somerton, Llanwern, Magor and Undy, and Cardiff Parkway. The much-talked-about stations would improve local connectivity and allow more communities to access rail travel.

Nick Millington, route director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “By increasing the speed and capability of the relief lines between Cardiff and Severn Tunnel Junction, we can create the capacity needed to support new passenger services and unlock the proposed new stations along this route.”

The Chair of Transport for Wales, Vernon Everitt, called it a “major step” in their ambition to bring new stations to south east Wales. He said the improvements would make the proposed stations a reality by increasing capacity through higher line speeds.

The scheme is part of a wider programme of investment in Welsh railways which builds on the UK Government’s recent commitment to progress rail improvements across the region.

In February, Prime Minister Keir Starmer gave his backing to a wish list of projects set out in a new vision document from Transport for Wales.

This included providing the finance to deliver the six new stations between Cardiff and the Severn Tunnel, as well as a new station at Deeside which will increase services between north Wales and Merseyside.

BARCELONA, Spain — A 20-year-old University of Alabama junior from Elmhurst, Illinois, has been missing in Barcelona since the early morning hours of March 17, 2026, after a night out visiting friends studying abroad, his family said Wednesday, pleading for public help as Spanish police investigate and suspect foul play.

James Paul Gracey, known as “Jimmy,” was last seen around 3 a.m. local time outside Shoko, a popular nightclub and restaurant in the Villa Olímpica area near Port Olímpic on Barceloneta Beach, a tourist-heavy waterfront zone. He was visiting Theta Chi fraternity brothers from the University of Alabama who are on study-abroad programs in the city during spring break.

Gracey never returned to the Airbnb where he was staying with friends. One companion left the venue earlier, but Gracey stayed behind and failed to rejoin the group, relatives said. His family reported him missing later that day after growing concerned.

Catalan police, the Mossos d’Esquadra, recovered Gracey’s cellphone, which was found during the arrest of an unrelated individual, according to family statements and local reports. Authorities have reviewed security footage from the club showing Gracey leaving with someone else, a detail that has heightened suspicions of foul play, a Barcelona journalist told U.S. outlets.

The area around Port Olímpic is known for nightlife but has seen reports of petty crime and occasional incidents targeting tourists, though no direct link has been confirmed in this case. Police have launched searches, including at sea, amid concerns over Gracey’s safety.

Gracey, a Chicago-area native and graduate of Saint Ignatius College Prep, is described by family and friends as responsible, faith-oriented and outgoing. As chaplain of his Theta Chi chapter’s executive board, he mentored younger members on spiritual matters and served as philanthropy chairman, organizing community service efforts.

Fraternity brother Cavin McLay, also in Barcelona on the trip, told WVTM 13 that Gracey is “one of his best friends” since freshman year. “He’s a great person, a great guy, a man of outstanding character,” McLay said. “He’s one of those people that’s there for anyone when they need it.” McLay expressed fear for his friend’s safety while remaining hopeful, noting the group’s close collaboration with authorities.

Gracey was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, dark pants and a gold chain with a rhinestone cross. His family released photos from the night, showing him smiling in casual attire, to aid identification.

The Gracey family issued a statement expressing deep concern: “Our family is deeply concerned about James ‘Jimmy’ Gracey, who has been missing in Barcelona since the early morning hours of March 17. Jimmy is a 20-year-old University of Alabama student visiting friends abroad during spring break. He was last seen around 3:00 a.m. CET at the Shoko nightclub in the Port Olímpic area.”

They added that the disappearance is “completely out of character” for Jimmy, who was scheduled to fly home March 21. Uncle David Gracey, a CNN producer, told media the family is working closely with Spanish authorities, the U.S. Embassy in Barcelona, the State Department and Sen. Katie Britt’s office.

The University of Alabama confirmed Gracey was on a personal trip, not university-sponsored, and said staff are in contact with the family to provide support. “UA staff are in touch with the family and those associated with them to offer support and assistance in any way possible,” a university statement read.

Authorities have not released details on suspects or motives, and no criminal involvement has been publicly confirmed beyond the foul-play suspicion based on CCTV. The investigation remains active, with calls for anyone with information—particularly from the Shoko area that night—to contact Mossos d’Esquadra or the U.S. Embassy.

The case echoes other recent disappearances of young Americans abroad during travel, drawing attention to safety for students on spring break. Gracey’s family and friends continue spreading flyers digitally and urging shares on social media to generate leads.

As the search enters its third day, loved ones hold out hope for a safe return. “We ask that you keep Jimmy in your thoughts,” the family said, emphasizing prayers and vigilance from the public.

Anyone with information is urged to contact local Barcelona police or the U.S. Embassy in Spain.

HOUSTON — LeBron James and Luka Doncic delivered a masterclass in scoring efficiency and playmaking, combining for 70 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 124-116 road win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night at Toyota Center. The victory extended the Lakers’ winning streak to seven games — their longest of the season — and marked their 10th win in 11 outings.

Doncic paced the Lakers with a team-high 40 points on 7-of-17 shooting from three-point range (7 threes), adding nine rebounds and 10 assists for a near triple-double. James contributed 30 points on an extraordinary 13-of-14 shooting from the field (including 2-of-2 from deep), with five rebounds. The duo’s combined output marked a historic night, with James becoming the oldest player in NBA history at 41 years and 78 days to score 30+ points on 90%+ field goal percentage in a regular-season game. Doncic, meanwhile, surpassed Kobe Bryant for the most regular-season games in Lakers franchise history with 40+ points, 10+ assists and 5+ threes.

The Lakers (44-25) built early momentum, leading 35-26 after the first quarter behind sharp outside shooting and transition play. Houston (41-27) fought back in the third, outscoring Los Angeles 37-22 to take a brief lead, powered by Alperen Sengun’s 27 points and 10 assists and Amen Thompson’s 26 points and 11 rebounds. But the Lakers responded in the fourth, outscoring the Rockets 35-24 to seal the win.

A key sequence came with about 90 seconds remaining: Doncic found James for an alley-oop dunk to push the lead to four, followed by a Rockets turnover and a Doncic three-pointer that extended the advantage to 120-111. The Lakers’ defense clamped down late, limiting Houston to 24 fourth-quarter points.

James’ near-perfect shooting night tied the best single-game field goal percentage effort of his career, showcasing his continued elite efficiency at age 41. The performance also pushed him to 12,002 career rebounds, making him the 23rd player in NBA history to reach that milestone. Doncic’s 40-point outburst was his 11th of the season, underscoring his MVP-caliber form since joining the Lakers.

The win came just two days after the Lakers defeated Houston 100-92 on Monday, giving them a season series edge and tiebreaker advantage. Coach JJ Redick praised the duo’s chemistry postgame: “When LeBron and Luka are in rhythm like that, it’s tough to stop. They complement each other perfectly — Luka’s creation and LeBron’s finishing and decision-making.”

Houston, despite the loss, showed resilience with strong interior play from Sengun and Thompson. Kevin Durant added contributions off the bench, though specifics on his output were limited in reports. The Rockets remain competitive in the Western Conference but struggled to contain the Lakers’ star power in crunch time.

The victory bolsters the Lakers’ playoff positioning in a loaded Western Conference, where they sit third and continue building momentum toward the postseason. Doncic’s scoring and facilitation, paired with James’ veteran leadership and efficiency, have fueled the surge, raising expectations for a deep run.

Postgame reactions highlighted the historical significance. ESPN analysts noted the rarity of two superstars combining for 70 points in such efficient fashion, with James’ shooting percentage drawing comparisons to legendary performances. Fans on social media celebrated the “historic night,” with clips of Doncic’s deep threes and James’ alley-oop dunk circulating widely.

As the Lakers prepare for their next matchup, the focus remains on sustaining defensive intensity and health for their veteran core. With Doncic and James leading the charge, Los Angeles appears primed for contention.

The Rockets, meanwhile, regroup for their push toward the play-in or better seeding, relying on their young talent to bounce back.