It’s Friday, it’s almost the weekend, so let’s kick back and reflect on another eventful week for the retail systems space. Here's your briefing on the most important stories from the past few days.

1. Marks and Spencer boosts online capacity with new automated warehouse

M&S is building an automated online warehouse within its Bradford distribution centre as part of the retailer’s Never the Same Again programme. 

This will line up alongside a Castle Donington facility (which opened in 2012) and in-store pick model.

2. ICA Gruppen taps Ocado Group tech for online warehouse in Gothenburg

Swedish retailer ICA Gruppen has opened a dark store in Arendal, outside Gothenburg.

This is powered by Ocado Group tech.

3. Amazon taps latest retail technology for London hair salon launch

Amazon has announced the launch of Amazon Salon, an experiential hair care and styling venue where the e-commerce giant will showcase new products and technology.

This will be set over two floors and more than 1,500 sq. ft. on Brushfield Street in London’s Spitalfields.

4. Misfits Market nabs unicorn status with Series C round

Misfits Market, a US-based e-commerce platform specialising in the delivery of food that would otherwise be wasted, has completed a $200 million Series C funding round.

This brings the company's total funding to $301.5 million. It is now valued at $1.1 billion.

5. Tesco Bank hits record £0.5 billion in gift card sales

Tesco reached a record £0.5 billion in gift card sales during the financial year ending 28th February 2021.

The 65% year-on-year increase was achieved through a combination of in-store and digital sales.  

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