Money
Could the Menendez Brothers Finally Be Released
A group of around 24 relatives of the Menendez brothers is advocating for their freedom. After spending decades behind bars for the murder of their parents, is there a possibility they could actually be set free? The case of the brothers, who were convicted for the 1989 killings of their parents in their Beverly Hills home, has gained renewed attention due to a Netflix series that dramatizes their story. Lyle Menendez, now 56, and his 53-year-old brother Erik are both serving life sentences without the possibility of parole for the shotgun murders of their father, Jose, and mother, Kitty Menendez. Following the release of the Netflix series titled Monsters and a new documentary, their family has come forward to advocate for their release.
Arguments for the Menendez Brothers’ Freedom
What arguments are being made for the brothers’ freedom? Is there any new evidence that could lead to their release?
Family Perspectives
At the time of their parents’ deaths, the Menendez brothers were just 21 and 18 years old. They confessed to shooting their parents but were convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy in 1996. They argue that their actions were in self-defense, stemming from years of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
On October 17, a gathering of extended family members held a press conference in Los Angeles. Anamaria Baralt, the niece of Jose Menendez, spoke on behalf of the family, expressing, “Both sides of the family are united, sharing a new bond of hope.” She emphasized that the brothers were victims of a “culture that was not ready to listen,” urging the district attorney’s office to consider the complete context of their situation.
Joan Andersen VanderMolen, Kitty Menendez’s sister, also shared her thoughts, stating, “I had no idea how severe the abuse they endured was at the hands of my brother-in-law. None of us were aware.” She acknowledged that “abuse can have long-lasting effects,” recognizing that those who experience trauma may react in ways that are hard to comprehend.
Family Division
However, the family is not completely united. Kitty Menendez’s brother, Milton Andersen, 90, has expressed that he believes the appropriate punishment for the Menendez brothers is life in prison without the possibility of parole. His attorney stated that he is convinced no molestation took place, arguing that the motive behind the murders was sheer greed, as the brothers had just discovered they were being removed from their parents’ will.
New Evidence and Evolving Perspectives
The Menendez brothers have consistently claimed that they were victims of abuse at the hands of their parents since their initial murder charges were filed. At that time, prosecutors argued there was no proof of any molestation, asserting that the brothers were primarily interested in their parents’ substantial estate.
During their first trial in 1993, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision, but in the second trial, they were found guilty, opting for life without parole instead of a death sentence. Their legal team contends that, given the evolving societal perspectives on sexual abuse, the brothers might not have faced first-degree murder charges and a life sentence if tried today. They argue that manslaughter charges should have been considered, but this option was not available to the jury in the second trial.
Additionally, the defense claims to have discovered a letter written by Erik Menendez to his cousin, dated months before the murders, in which he described alleged abuse from his father and expressed fear of him. LA district attorney George Gascon briefly posted the letter on his Instagram before removing it. In the handwritten note, Erik mentioned, “I’ve been trying to avoid dad… every night, I stay up thinking he might come in.” He also expressed feelings of fear and the need to “put it out of my mind” and “stop thinking about it.”
Roy Rossello, a former member of the band Menudo, also came forward in the Peacock documentary series Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed, claiming he was also a victim of rape by Jose Menendez.
Potential for Release
Is there a genuine possibility for the brothers to be released? Absolutely, as prosecutors in Los Angeles are currently reassessing the brothers’ convictions, with a court hearing set for November 26. The brothers’ legal team has requested that the court consider their rehabilitation based on their conduct while incarcerated. If the court finds in their favor regarding rehabilitation, the brothers might be released or have their sentences reduced.
Additionally, the lawyers have presented a letter Erik wrote to his cousin as new evidence, which was not available to the jury during the brothers’ sentencing in 1996 and could have impacted their verdict. Should the court rule in their favor on this matter but not on rehabilitation, it may result in a retrial.
During a press conference, Mr. Gascon emphasized that the review is not about determining the brothers’ guilt in their parents’ deaths, stating that it is “factual” and “well established” that they were responsible. He also mentioned that over 300 individuals have been resentenced during his tenure as district attorney, with only four reoffending.
Family’s Reaction
How have the brothers responded to the review? Tammi Menendez, Erik’s wife, shared her thoughts on social media, expressing gratitude for the support following the District Attorney’s announcement. She wrote on X: “We truly appreciate the encouragement we’ve received and remain hopeful that this November will bring the resolution we’ve all been longing for. Your continued prayers as we await their official response would mean a lot to us.” After the family’s press conference, she added, “Erik feels incredibly thankful and deeply moved by the immense love and support from his family today. Their faith in him, along with their encouragement, care, and understanding, means more to him than words can convey.”
Understanding Executive Clemency
Executive clemency refers to the authority held by a President in federal criminal matters and by a Governor in state cases to grant pardons to individuals convicted of crimes. This power allows them to forgive the offense, reduce a sentence (often to time already served), or change a death sentence to a lesser penalty.
There are various motivations for utilizing this authority, such as genuine doubts regarding the individual’s guilt, concerns about an excessively harsh sentence, humanitarian considerations like the health of an elderly inmate, the desire to acknowledge someone who has shown rehabilitation, or even personal connections with the Governor.
During his presidency from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021, Donald Trump used his clemency authority to grant executive clemency to 237 people who were either charged with or convicted of federal crimes, as outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution. Typically, requests for clemency related to federal offenses are submitted to the Office of the Pardon Attorney (OPA) within the U.S. Department of Justice for evaluation. However, Trump often chose to bypass the OPA, and many of his clemency decisions favored well-connected individuals.
High-Profile Clemency Decisions
Donald Trump attracted significant attention due to the high-profile nature of his clemency recipients. Here are five notable individuals to whom Trump granted clemency:
- Roger Stone (July 2020) – A longtime political adviser and confidant of Trump, Stone was convicted of multiple charges, including witness tampering and lying to Congress during the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Trump commuted his sentence just days before Stone was set to go to prison.
- Paul Manafort (December 2020) – Trump’s former campaign chairman, Manafort was convicted on charges related to financial fraud stemming from special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian election interference. Trump pardoned him in the final weeks of his presidency.
- Michael Flynn (November 2020) – Trump’s first national security adviser, Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about his contacts with the Russian ambassador. Trump pardoned Flynn after a prolonged legal battle.
- Lil Wayne (Dwayne Michael Carter Jr.) (January 2021) – The rapper was facing a potential 10-year sentence after pleading guilty to a gun charge. Trump granted him a full pardon in the final hours of his presidency.
- Kodak Black (Bill Kahan Kapri) (January 2021) – Another rapper, Kodak Black, was serving time for weapons charges. Trump commuted his sentence as part of a series of last-minute clemency decisions before leaving office.
The Future of the Menendez Brothers’ Case
There’s no clear indication that Donald Trump would grant clemency or a retrial for the Menendez brothers if re-elected. While there has been renewed interest in the Menendez case, especially with documentaries and advocacy for their release, there’s no known personal connection between Trump and the brothers, nor has he publicly commented on their case.
Trump has used clemency in a high-profile manner, but whether he would consider the Menendez brothers would likely depend on public pressure, media attention, or legal arguments presented during his term. However, as of now, there is no specific reason to believe that they would be on his clemency radar.
The case of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, has sparked renewed interest and debate as advocates push for a retrial. Their case has been under scrutiny, with numerous arguments presented in favor of revisiting their convictions, particularly focusing on the allegations of abuse they endured. Here, we explore the key arguments supporting a retrial, alongside the challenges that may impede this legal pursuit.
Challenges to a Retrial
Key Arguments for a Retrial in the Menendez Brothers Case
The case of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, has sparked renewed interest and debate as advocates push for a retrial. Their case has been under scrutiny, with numerous arguments presented in favor of revisiting their convictions, particularly focusing on the allegations of abuse they endured. Here, we explore the key arguments supporting a retrial, alongside the challenges that may impede this legal pursuit.
Allegations of Abuse
The Menendez brothers have consistently maintained that their decision to kill their parents stemmed from a long history of severe physical and sexual abuse inflicted by their father, combined with emotional abuse from their mother. They assert that these traumatic experiences shaped their actions, leading to a desperate need for self-preservation.
During their original trial in the 1990s, the defense team attempted to introduce evidence of the alleged abuse, but it was largely dismissed by the court. This has left many advocates questioning whether the jury was fully informed about the context of the brothers’ claims. The narrative presented during the trial painted the brothers as motivated by greed rather than as victims of a traumatic upbringing, ultimately leading to their life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Advocates for a retrial argue that the abuse claims were not adequately addressed during the original proceedings. They believe that had the jury been privy to the full extent of the brothers’ traumatic experiences, it might have influenced their understanding of the events that transpired on that fateful night in 1989.
Evolving Understanding of Abuse
Legal experts and advocates contend that societal perceptions of familial abuse have shifted dramatically since the 1990s. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and acknowledgment of the complexities surrounding psychological trauma, particularly within the context of family dynamics. This evolving understanding has fueled the push for a retrial, as it may offer a more nuanced perspective on the brothers’ actions.
The legal landscape surrounding domestic abuse has also transformed, with an increased emphasis on the psychological implications of such trauma. Supporters argue that the courts must recognize the lasting impact of childhood abuse on adult behavior, and that a retrial could provide an opportunity to address these issues more comprehensively than was possible in the original trial.
New Evidence
In 2023, the NBC documentary Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed reignited discussions around the Menendez case by presenting new testimony from Roy Rosselló, a former member of the band Menudo. Rosselló claimed that he was sexually abused by José Menendez as a teenager. This shocking revelation has prompted calls for further investigation and has provided a new avenue for examining the brothers’ claims of abuse.
The testimony of Rosselló is seen by many advocates as potentially corroborative evidence that could support Lyle and Erik Menendez’s assertions of being victims themselves. If the allegations against José Menendez are substantiated, it may lend credence to the brothers’ narratives and strengthen the argument for a retrial, as it would underscore a pattern of abusive behavior that extended beyond the Menendez household.
Challenges to a Retrial
While the arguments for a retrial are compelling, significant legal barriers exist that make it difficult to achieve. U.S. law generally upholds the principle of finality in criminal convictions, meaning that it is exceedingly rare for a case to be reopened once all appeals have been exhausted. The Menendez brothers have pursued multiple appeals over the years, all of which have been denied, complicating their quest for justice.
The courts often prioritize the finality of verdicts, resisting the reopening of cases unless compelling new evidence emerges that directly impacts the fairness of the original trial. Although new testimony regarding José Menendez has come to light, it remains uncertain whether it meets the legal standard necessary to warrant a retrial.
In conclusion, while the case for a retrial of the Menendez brothers is bolstered by allegations of abuse, evolving societal understanding, and new evidence, the path forward is fraught with legal challenges. The principles of finality and the difficulty of introducing new evidence into a closed case present formidable obstacles. As discussions continue and new developments unfold, the future of the Menendez brothers’ quest for justice remains uncertain, leaving many to wonder if they will ever have the opportunity to present their case anew.
Revisiting the Menendez Brothers Case: A Quest for Justice and Understanding
The case of the Menendez brothers, Lyle and Erik, has long captivated public attention and raised profound questions about justice, trauma, and the complexities of familial relationships. Convicted in 1996 for the shotgun murders of their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, the brothers have spent decades behind bars. Recently, advocates have renewed calls for a retrial, emphasizing allegations of long-term abuse, evolving societal understandings of trauma, and newly surfaced evidence.
At the core of their argument is the assertion that the brothers killed their parents in response to years of severe physical and sexual abuse from their father and emotional abuse from their mother. Advocates argue that these claims were inadequately addressed during the original trial. Legal experts suggest that the societal context surrounding familial abuse has changed significantly since the 1990s, prompting a push for the judicial system to adapt to these evolving understandings.
New evidence further complicates the narrative. In 2023, NBC released a documentary featuring testimony from Roy Rosselló, a former member of the band Menudo, who claimed that José Menendez sexually abused him as a teenager. This development has intensified calls for a comprehensive investigation, with many believing it could bolster the brothers’ claims of being victims themselves.
However, the path to a retrial is fraught with significant legal barriers. U.S. law makes it extremely difficult to secure a retrial after a conviction, especially after multiple appeals have been denied. Courts often prioritize the finality of convictions unless there is compelling new evidence that directly impacts the fairness of the original trial. While emerging testimonies about José Menendez’s alleged abuses add weight to the argument for reconsideration, it remains uncertain if these developments will be sufficient to warrant a retrial.
As discussions surrounding the case gain momentum and public interest swells, the fate of Lyle and Erik Menendez hangs in the balance. Their quest for justice transcends personal vindication; it embodies a broader movement advocating for the recognition of abuse and its far-reaching effects on victims.
Whether they will ultimately receive a retrial remains uncertain. However, their story underscores the critical importance of listening to victims and reconsidering past judgments in light of new evidence and evolving understandings of trauma. As society continues to grapple with these issues, the Menendez brothers’ case serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in the pursuit of justice within the familial sphere.
Related: The Menendez Brothers’ Money
Money
Tesco announces new Christmas meal deal range – & four fan favourites are returning to shelves in DAYS
TESCO has announced its Christmas 2024 meal deal range and four fan favourites will return to its aisles in just days.
The retail giant has confirmed that a total of eight new mains and sides will join the lineup in stores and online from October 21.
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Tesco Clubcard members can nab a festive main, snack and drink for a measly £3.60.
The supermarket has something for everyone – with options catering to meat-eaters and veggies alike.
Sarnies making their debut in the range include Tesco’s new Christmas Cracking Currywurst Sub – available for a £3.00 on its own, making this meal deal a stellar saver.
The festive sandwich is filled with juicy pork sausage, smoky caramelised onions and tangy curry ketchup, wrapped into an egg-glazed sub roll.
For £3.25, the new Ho-Ho-Hog Wrap comes with low-cooked pulled pork seasoned with fennel and garlic.
It’s paired with rosemary gravy mayo and a crunchy apple slaw and wrapped in a tortilla.
Veggies can enjoy the new Plant Chef Christmas Veg Fest Wrap for just £3.
It features roasted carrots, parsnips, and spiced red cabbage, topped with vegan gravy mayo and is tucked inside a spinach tortilla.
The supermarket has also kept gluten-free eaters in mind with their new Gluten Free Festive Chicken & Trimmings sandwich for £3.40.
It pairs tender chicken breast, layered with pork, sage and onion stuffing mayo, cranberry sauce between two slices of seeded gluten-free bread.
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But that’s not all – some popular products are returning to the festive meal deal range, including the likes of Tesco Turkey & Trimmings Sandwich, priced at £3.40.
This sandwich is packed with turkey breast, sausage, sage and onion stuffing, and beechwood smoked bacon and is layered with mayo and cranberry sauce, served on slices of malted bread.
And Clubcard members can get three premium mains as part of its Christmas Meal Deal range for just a fiver.
The Tesco Finest side comes complete with a side and a choice of drink, like regular meal deals.
The first premium main is the Chicken & Bacon Wrap with Gravy Mayonnaise Dip, setting shoppers back £4.25 on its own.
It contains chargrilled chicken breast and maple-cured bacon which is paired with a tangy cranberry chilli chutney and wrapped in a soft, bar-marked tortilla.
The second main to join the lineup is the £4.50 Festive Chicken, Bacon & Stuffing Mayo Baguette which comes with chicken breast, beechwood smoked bacon, sage and onion stuffing mayo, and cranberry sauce.
The third and final premium main is the £4.25 Tesco Finest Turkey BLT that’s inspired by New York delis.
It features pastrami-style turkey, maple-cured bacon, Emmental cheese, and tangy gherkin mayo, all served on rye and caraway bread.
Tesco has also launched snacks for just £1.50 a pop, with two new treats for shoppers to feast on.
The Mini Christmas Bangers with Gravy Mayo Dip are made from pork, apple, and cranberry and served with a rich sage and black pepper mayo dip on the side for a herby, festive finish.
The Christmassy Chicken Bites with Festive Cranberry Dip feature tender chicken bites seasoned with stuffing and accompanied by with a zesty cranberry dip.
But two meal deal snacks will be returning – including Tesco Mini Pork Pies and Tesco Pig in Blanket Sausage Rolls.
The pair of mini pork pies feature seasoned cured pork, sweetened dried cranberries, and cranberry sauce wrapped in a crisp hot water crust pastry.
Meanwhile, the Pig in Blanket Sausage Rolls include pork sausage meat wrapped in smoked bacon and encased in flaky puff pastry and sage and onion seasoning.
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THE annual festive hiring spree is officially in full swing, with another 40,000 Christmas temp jobs up for grabs this week.
Seasonal positions are a great way to test out different sectors and to see if it’s an area you would like work in longer term.
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Taking on an unconventional temp job will help you develop a new skillset, build your network and make your CV stand out when you apply for jobs in the future.
This week Sunemployment brings you some of the most unusual festive jobs on offer . . .
Warwick Castle needs 15 ice rink hosts and two ice rink team leaders. Apply at merlincareers.com.
Posh baker Cutter & Squidge has just launched in John Lewis and is hiring 30 more staff to meet demand for luxury Christmas hampers and cakes.
Co-founder Emily Lui said: “We hire on a combination of positive attitude and energy rather than a whole host of qualifications.
“Oh, and a love of cake also goes a long way too!”
Apply at cutterandsquidge.com.
Have you got what it takes to work in a Christmas grotto?
Great Grottos is recruiting for elves, grotto managers and Santas at greatgrottos.co.uk.
Full training is given but Santas must be aged at least 28. Full and part-time positions available and wages are paid every fortnight.
If you’re a dab hand at ensuring presents look perfect, most major department stores are searching for in-store Christmas gift wrappers.
See jobsearch.selfridges.com, harrodscareers.com and janemeans.com/pages/gift-wrapping-jobs.
Love a Christmas selection box? Then apply to Cadbury World.
The Birmingham attraction is hiring six retail hosts to refill shelves and help on the tills, plus 13 chocolate demonstrators, with the possibility of a permanent job.
Carmen Martin-Smith joined Cadbury World as a festive chocolate-making temp and now works as a permanent chocolate creator.
Carmen, 32, from King’s Norton, Birmingham, said: “I didn’t know a chocolate creator was even a career choice until I started at Cadbury World.
“It’s not like any other job. I love getting creative and I even train new colleagues how to make the handmade items.
“I only have to say my job title is Cadbury World chocolate creator and people are always interested in what it involves.
“If you are thinking of applying for an unusual Christmas job I would say definitely, give it a go.
“Plus, I get to work with chocolate every day, and who wouldn’t want that?”
Gerrard Baldwin, general manager at Cadbury World, said: “Our colleagues play such an important role in delivering the magic of Christmas.”
A SUPER ROLE FOR TEMPS
FOR a super seasonal job, try your local supermarket.
They are among the biggest recruiters of festive temp staff, and this year Tesco is taking on 26,000 Christmas helpers.
Positions are available in the retail giant’s superstores and Extra shops, packing for online deliveries and in store replenishment.
Alexandra Brown, group people services director, said: “We’re looking for people who enjoy working as part of a team and are prepared to go that extra mile to help our customers.”
Jay Styles started as a festive temp but is now a permanent staff member on the checkouts at Tesco’s Hednesford store, in Cannock Chase, Staffs.
Jay said: “Growing up with autism, I found socialising really difficult and never fitted in. I also suffered from low self-esteem and confidence.
“Once I started working at Tesco I felt my confidence grow and I have much more faith in my abilities.
“I was made permanent after my role as a Christmas festive colleague and received great feedback from customers.
“I always feel supported by Tesco and the management team and would highly recommend Tesco as a great place to work.”
Apply at tesco-careers.com/festive.
ALDI is hiring 3,500 store staff at aldirecruitment.co.uk, with pay rates from £12.40 per hour.
MORRISONS needs 3,000 extra people to work across its stores, food manufacturing sites and logistics operations. See morrisons.jobs.
The Co-op also needs 400 new staff. See jobs.coop.co.uk.
Jobspot
PUB chain the Liberation Group is hiring 200 staff for front and back-of-house roles.
The company has more than 120 pubs across South West England and the Channel Islands. Search for jobs at careers.butcombebrewery.com.
IT’S NOT JUST FOR XMAS…
EACH year, around one in five festive temps gets an extra present in the shape of a permanent job at their Christmas employer.
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If you’d like to turn your seasonal post into a serious career, try this Santa’s sackful of tips, from Department for Work and Pensions work coaches.
ASK ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES: Enjoying your job? Let your manager know you are keen to stay on with the company. If you see a suitable vacancy, apply while you are still working there.
HAVE A CAN-DO ATTITUDE: Approach every task with positivity. Even when the role may be difficult, show determination to get it done well.
BE A TEAM PLAYER: Consider what tasks need to be done by your department and how you can add value.
BE PROACTIVE: When you have finished a task, ask your manager or colleagues if there is anything else you can do to help.
ASK FOR FEEDBACK: Requesting this from your colleagues and your manager will show you have a desire to improve and that you are thinking long-term on how you can develop personally but also within the team.
SHOW YOUR POTENTIAL: Ask if you can shadow colleagues in departments of interest and use it as a work experience exercise.
GET PARCELS WHERE THEY NEED TO GO
IT’S not just Father Christmas who busily needs helpers at this time of year.
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Logistics firms have thousands of jobs on offer to deliver gifts and parcels across the nation.
DPD is taking on 200 warehouse operatives and drivers (3.5t, 7.5t and Class 1), on fixed-term contracts. See jobs.dpd.co.uk.
There are also 1,000 jobs for self-employed, permanent owner drivers at drivers.dpd.co.uk/apply.
GXO needs 1,500 staff, including warehouse operatives, forklift and HGV drivers. See jobs.gxo.com. Eddie Stobart has more than 100 driver vacancies.
Email your CV to careers@eddiestobart.com.
EVRI needs 5,000 self-employed couriers, with working patterns right across the seven days of the week.
Gary Robinson, director of couriers, said: “As we head into our busiest time of year, we have lots of vacancies for those seeking a role that puts them in control of setting their own workload, with opportunities spanning beyond Christmas.”
See beacourier.co.uk.
Jobspot
THE Sweet Hamper Company based in Tiptree, Essex, is taking on ten festive pickers and packers.
For more details and to apply, see sweethampercompany.co.uk/pages/careers.
Money
‘Finally’ cry choc fans as Cadbury brings back iconic treats for Christmas – and they taste just like Mini Eggs
CADBURY fans are over the moon after the chocolate giant brought back iconic treats just in time for Christmas.
The Mini Snowballs range has now returned to supermarket shelves – and the festive treats are proving a massive hit.
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The range includes an 80g and 270g bag of Mini Snowballs, which retails from £1.50 and £4.25 respectively.
Cadbury are also selling a 110g Mini Snowballs bar, retailing from £1.50.
The chocolate giant announced the return of the seasonal treats on Instagram on October 9 with a video of fans excitedly rushing to their local Sainsbury’s store to snap up the treat.
The caption read: “PSA: Cadbury Snowballs have hit the shelves! Is it too soon, or are we just getting a head start on the Christmas magic?”
Ecstatic fans took to the comments to weigh in with their opnions after the treat “finally” made a comeback.
One wrote: “Yay! My favourite! Even better than mini eggs.”
Another said: “We have been waiting since last Christmas!”
A happy third added: “I’ve eaten 3 packets already. They’re the best.”
Made with sustainably sourced cocoa, the Mini Snowballs bag contains Cadbury milk chocolate balls wrapped in a crisp sugar shell with a dusting of icing sugar.
Meanwhile, the Mini Snowballs bar contains chocolate with mini snowballs inclusions.
The products are currently available to purchase at major retailers across the UK, including Asda, Morrisons, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose.
As Christmas becomes more expensive with each passing year, some punters may now have the perfect solution to rising food costs.
That includes your festive-favourite chocolates, which are always popular with shoppers at this time of year.
It’s always a good idea to shop around to make sure you can find the best deals.
There are plenty of comparison websites out there that’ll check prices for you – so don’t be left paying more than you have to.
Most of them work by comparing the prices across hundreds of retailers.
Google Shopping is a tool that lets users search for and compare prices for products across the web.
Simply type in keywords, or a product number, to bring up search results.
Price Spy logs the history of how much something costs from over 3,000 different retailers, including Argos, Amazon, eBay and supermarkets.
Once you select an individual product you can quickly compare which stores have the best price and which have it in stock.
Idealo is another website that lets you compare prices between retailers.
All shoppers need to do is search for the item they need and the website will rank them from the cheapest to the most expensive one.
How to bag a bargain
SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain…
Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with.
Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks.
Sales are when you can pick up a real steal.
Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on.
Sign up to mailing lists and you’ll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too.
When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use vouchercodes.co.uk and myvouchercodes.co.uk are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer.
Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. Trolley.co.uk app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping.
Bargain hunters can also use B&M’s scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out.
And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you’ll get some of your money back or a discount on the item.
Money
‘It’s a dreadful shame,’ cry shoppers as major high street chain to shut town centre store for good
SHOPPERS cry “it’s a dreadful shame” as a major high street chain announces the closure of its town centre store.
The store, based in the Welsh town of Rhyl, has revealed its exact closure date.
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On February 15, 2025, WHSmith’s on Rhyl High Street will close for good.
As reported by North Wales Live, the stationary giant revealed the store was “no longer sustainable”.
A WHSmith spokesperson said: “We can confirm that the WHSmith store in Rhyl will be closing on Saturday 15 February 2025.
“It is no longer sustainable to continue to trade from this location and the decision has been taken to close the store as a result of the forthcoming lease expiry.
“We are disappointed to be losing our presence in Rhyl and we would like to thank all our customers for their support and for shopping with us.
“We are also extremely grateful for the commitment of our in store colleagues who we will support with this transition and redeploy to nearby stores, where possible.”
Over the past few years various WHSmith stores in the region have too, sadly closed.
Such as in Colwyn Bay and one in Bangor.
Many unhappy shoppers took to social media to share their woes in response to the closure in Rhyl.
One said: “It’s a dreadful shame was has happened to the High Street, they should never have taken Marks and Spencer’s to Prestatyn it’s buzzing there. Disgraceful!”
A second said: “Awww lovely memories of going upstairs to browse all the books. Rhyl is turning into a sad place.”
And a third said: “Spent many a happy Friday afternoon in there while my Grandkids picked their books so sad to see this.”
While a fourth commented: “Such a shame. Rhyl high street is ruined.”
And then a fifth said: “Everything is going from Rhyl. The last time I was there I wash shocked at the changes and non seem to be for the better.”
The Facebook post has in fact racked up 72 likes and hundreds of comments.
This closure comes after it was revealed WHSmith’s in March, Cambridgeshire will also shut down in January 2025.
Again, many people took to Facebook to express their frustration with the closure and the state of the town’s high street.
One user said: “I knew this would happen. God, our high street is dying…all That work seems like such a massive waste.
“And on top of that, more jobs going. I hope all the staff find work ASAP.”
Another said: “Shame as some books and mags will have to be bought online now.
“Mind you almost always empty when I’ve been in there.”
In the past 11 months, as many as nine WHSmith stores in the UK have closed.
They include:
- Crewe, Cheshire – March, 2023
- Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire – March, 2023
- Bicester, Oxfordshire – August, 2023
- Manchester – December 2, 2023
- Alfreton, Derbyshire – January, 2024
- Ramsgate, Kent – January, 2024
- Oban, Argyll and Bute, Scotland – February, 2024
- Nantwich, South Cheshire – February, 2024
- Margate, Kent – April 20, 2024
WHSmith also confirmed it is “regrettably” closing its store in Street, Somerset, early next year.
Why are retailers closing stores?
RETAILERS have been feeling the squeeze since the pandemic, while shoppers are cutting back on spending due to the soaring cost of living crisis.
High energy costs and a move to shopping online after the pandemic are also taking a toll, and many high street shops have struggled to keep going.
The high street has seen a whole raft of closures over the past year, and more are coming.
The number of jobs lost in British retail dropped last year, but 120,000 people still lost their employment, figures have suggested.
Figures from the Centre for Retail Research revealed that 10,494 shops closed for the last time during 2023, and 119,405 jobs were lost in the sector.
It was fewer shops than had been lost for several years, and a reduction from 151,641 jobs lost in 2022.
The centre’s director, Professor Joshua Bamfield, said the improvement is “less bad” than good.
Although there were some big-name losses from the high street, including Wilko, many large companies had already gone bust before 2022, the centre said, such as Topshop owner Arcadia, Jessops and Debenhams.
“The cost-of-living crisis, inflation and increases in interest rates have led many consumers to tighten their belts, reducing retail spend,” Prof Bamfield said.
“Retailers themselves have suffered increasing energy and occupancy costs, staff shortages and falling demand that have made rebuilding profits after extensive store closures during the pandemic exceptionally difficult.”
Alongside Wilko, which employed around 12,000 people when it collapsed, 2023’s biggest failures included Paperchase, Cath Kidston, Planet Organic and Tile Giant.
The Centre for Retail Research said most stores were closed because companies were trying to reorganise and cut costs rather than the business failing.
However, experts have warned there will likely be more failures this year as consumers keep their belts tight and borrowing costs soar for businesses.
The Body Shop and Ted Baker are the biggest names to have already collapsed into administration this year.
KLARNA has revealed a major change to its famous buy now, pay later scheme.
From today, British and American Apple users can use the savvy AI-powered shopping tool through Apple Pay when placing an order.
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Customers can check out with Apple Pay online and through apps if they have iPhones with iOS 18 or later or iPads with iPadOS 18 or later.
Shoppers will have access to Klarna’s flexible payment offerings, including pay later in three or four instalments with no interest or over longer periods with APRs starting at 0%.
Klarna is set to launch the same feature in Canada within the next few months as part of a global expansion.
Sebastian Siemiatkowski, Co-founder and CEO of Klarna, said: “Consumers around the world have been asking for Klarna on Apple Pay, so I’m super proud to let them know it’s here!
“Our fair, flexible and interest-free payments options are now even easier to use at your favourite merchants when checking out on Apple Pay online and in apps in the US, UK, and soon Canada.
“This is a big step toward our mission to offer consumers Klarna at every checkout.”
Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, added: “We’re excited to give users in the US and UK more choice in how they pay with the addition of Klarna’s flexible payment options right at checkout on Apple Pay.
“With this rollout, users have the option to pay for purchases over time, and they get to enjoy the seamless and secure experience of Apple Pay that they already know and love.”
The new integration hopes to make flexible payment options more accessible so Klarna purchases can be made directly on an iPhone or iPad, in app and online with Apple Pay.
All eligible users need to do is select Other Cards & Pay Later Options when they check out on Apple Pay with an iPhone or iPad.
THINK BEFORE YOU BORROW
BORROWING sounds like a simple way to help pay bills – but beware falling into debt you cannot pay back.
It’s always vital to ask yourself if you actually need to borrow before committing to a new credit card, personal loan or overdraft.
If you cannot afford to pay off debt you already have, you should avoid at all costs taking on any more.
When customers apply for credit through a BNPL provider, they usually undergo a “soft” credit check that leaves no footprint on their credit file.
As a result of this, other providers won’t see if you’ve borrowed money this way. That’s why it is easy to amass debts with different firms.
Even though BNPL is advertised as interest-free, if you miss payments, you could still be charged late fees. Your debts can also be passed on to a collection agency.
Some BNPL firms, including Klarna, tell credit reference agencies about late payments.
Shoppers also miss out on major consumer rights protections that come with traditional credit.
Then they must select Klarna to access the Klarna products that are available to them.
Once they agree to the terms, they can double click the side button and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID to confirm their purchase.
Before approving the purchase, Klarna will make a new lending decision, using its industry-leading underwriting checks.
This decision will not impact a customers’ credit score.
With this handy integration, users can enjoy all the privacy and security features they love about Apple Pay.
As with all Apple Pay purchases, when a user pays with Klarna, Apple does not keep a record of a user’s transaction history.
Klarna clarifies that loans are not offered by Apple and the feature may not be available for all types of purchases, such as subscriptions and recurring transactions.
And while it’s available with Apple Pay online and in apps, via suitable iPhones or iPads, it is not available in-store.
Since last month, US-based customers have been able to purchase Apple products using flexible payment options on Klarna.com and Apple from Klarna, a storefront in the Klarna app.
With 85 million active consumers, Klarna is the biggest global buy now, pay later (BNPL) provider in the world.
Earlier today we revealed that changes to BNPL rules to protect shoppers are set to kick in within months under major new plans by the government.
The new Labour government has confirmed that it intends to legislate to bring the BNPL sector under the City watchdog’s rule by early 2025.
This would mean the regulation would come into effect in early 2026.
Proposals to regulate BNPL products were first touted in 2021, but have been repeatedly delayed.
We revealed earlier this year that the previous government had shelved the plans over fears that it would drive BNPL firms out of the market during a cost of living crisis.
But the lack of regulation around BNPL is bad news for shoppers as it means these firms don’t have to follow the same rules as major credit lenders and customers aren’t protected if things go wrong.
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How to get free debt help
There are several groups which can help you with your problem debts for free.
- Citizens Advice – 0800 144 8848 (England) / 0800 702 2020 (Wales)
- StepChange – 0800138 1111
- National Debtline – 0808 808 4000
- Debt Advice Foundation – 0800 043 4050
You can also find information about Debt Management Plans (DMP) and Individual Voluntary Agreements (IVA) by visiting MoneyHelper.org.uk or Gov.UK.
Speak to one of these organisations – don’t be tempted to use a claims management firm.
They say they can write off lots of your debt in return for a large upfront fee.
But there are other options where you don’t need to pay.
THE exact date that Aldi is launching its popular Bluey range has been announced – and items are being flogged from just £7.
The budget supermarket is extending its sought-after wooden toy collection with an exclusive range of Bluey toys, inspired by the Aussie cartoon.
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The products are emblazoned with the popular children’s TV character – including a special edition Wooden Kitchen.
Aldi has revealed that the range will be available in stores from October 24 to November 7.
But the German supermarket warned that shoppers will need to act fast if they want to grab the Specialbuys items.
Bluey Wooden Trolley – £19.99
Kids can get their hands on the Aldi exclusive toy set for just £20 – and it comes packed with cupboard essentials.
This includes wooden pasta, almond milk, pizza and cereal – and it’s even got a a wooden scanner to help kids role play.
Wooden Cash Register – £19.99
Playtime can be made even more immersive with Aldi’s fun wooden cash register.
The charming set includes a register, scanner, conveyor belt, till screen, name tag, and food accessories.
It boasts state-of-the-art features like wooden coins, notes, a bank card, and a card reader to facilitate different payment options.
Wooden Mechanic Set – £19.99
And for the more car-obsessed little ones, the wooden mechanic set includes a jump start battery, power leads, bulbs, tyres, windscreen wash, motor oil and engine parts.
The kit is also complete with with DIY essentials like a screwdriver, spanner, nuts and bolts, and has everything they need to fix, shine and polish the Heeler’s car.
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How to compare prices to get the best deal
JUST because something is on offer, or is part of a sale, it doesn’t mean it’s always a good deal.
There are plenty of comparison websites out there that’ll check prices for you – so don’t be left paying more than you have to.
Most of them work by comparing the prices across hundreds of retailers.
Here are some that we recommend:
- Google Shopping is a tool that lets users search for and compare prices for products across the web. Simply type in keywords, or a product number, to bring up search results.
- Price Spy logs the history of how much something costs from over 3,000 different retailers, including Argos, Amazon, eBay and the supermarkets. Once you select an individual product you can quickly compare which stores have the best price and which have it in stock.
- Idealo is another website that lets you compare prices between retailers. All shoppers need to do is search for the item they need and the website will rank them from the cheapest to the most expensive one.
- CamelCamelCamel only works on goods being sold on Amazon. To use it, type in the URL of the product you want to check the price of.
Bluey Kitchen – £59.99
Kids who are ready to whip up their favourite dishes will be delighted with the Bluey Kitchen.
The most pricey of the bunch, this Aldi exclusive is sure to be a fan favourite.
It’s equipped with pots and pans, colander, casserole dish, spatula, spoon, knife – perfect for budding chefs.
The set has a chopping board, plate, mug, chalkboard and an interactive hob featuring lights and sounds inside.
Aldi say the wooden culinary heaven should provide hours of imaginative play and it’s available in stores from November 7.
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Bluey Figures – £8.99
Parents will also be able to pick up playtime goodies like the Bluey Figures, perfect for young children and toddlers.
Bluey Scribbler and Art Easel – £9.99
What’s more, this easel is sure to appeal to artsy tots – sure to encourage creativity with a choice of magnetic or chalk-based drawing.
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Sleepy Time Bluey Soft Toy – £14.99
Once they’re all tuckered out, the talking sleepy time Bluey soft toy makes the perfect bedtime companion.
And you can nab a simple Bluey Soft Toy for just £6.99.
Bluey Post and Pavlova Sets – £12.99
These are inspired by Bluey episodes, with each set including accessories to play as a postman or baker.
With the exception of the Bluey Kitchen set which is only available from November 7, the entire range is in store from October 24.
The launch follows the success of the Bluey plush chair which was released earlier this year.
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How to bag a bargain
SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain…
Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with.
Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks.
Sales are when you can pick up a real steal.
Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on.
Sign up to mailing lists and you’ll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too.
When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use vouchercodes.co.uk and myvouchercodes.co.uk are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer.
Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. Trolley.co.uk app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping.
Bargain hunters can also use B&M’s scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out.
And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you’ll get some of your money back or a discount on the item.
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