Chargeback disputes surge in 2025 due to 'friendly fraud'
Shoppers initiated 158 million chargeback disputes in 2025, with 'friendly fraud' increasing by 29%, leading to significant costs for businesses.
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Shoppers initiated 158 million chargeback disputes in 2025, with 'friendly fraud' increasing by 29%, leading to significant costs for businesses.

Actor Ethan Suplee, known for 'Remember the Titans,' cautioned that GLP-1 weight loss drugs are not a 'one-stop shop,' emphasizing the importance of resistance training and healthy habits for lasting results.

American companies are reporting their best earnings results in years, with many setting long-term records. Major tech and pharmaceutical firms like PLTR, AMD, PFE, DIS, and SHOP are among those expected to announce strong financial performance in the coming week.

Greek frozen yogurt shops are experiencing long queues due to a new craze for high-protein options, luxurious toppings like mochi and olive oil, and perceived gut health benefits.
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has sealed several shops in the Tejuosho-Ojuelegba corridor of Lagos due to indiscriminate waste disposal, intensifying environmental law enforcement.
Japan is considering compiling an extra budget to aid in the recovery efforts following the Kumamoto earthquake. The quake has also led to a surge in demand for Kumamoto goods, with long lines reported at shops in Tokyo.

Young people are finding a new form of entertainment in "fictional shopping" on food delivery apps, browsing and placing orders they never intend to complete, to get a dopamine rush without spending money.

Hwang Bo-reum's 'Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop,' a quiet story about a neighborhood bookstore, was the most translated and best-selling Korean novel overseas last year, with its Turkish edition selling over 60,000 copies.

Residents of Epping in west Essex describe the lasting division and ongoing discussions within the community a year after protests concerning asylum seekers.

Clothes typically sold on online platforms like Shein and Temu are now also available in some Finnish physical stores, including Cybershop and Morticia.
Tributes are pouring in for Archbishop Margaret Idahosa as she marks her 83rd birthday, celebrating her life, legacy, and impact as Africa’s first female Pentecostal Archbishop.
A cloudburst in Kishtwar's Chatroo area caused flash floods, damaging shops and houses, washing away vehicles, and disrupting the national highway. The Amarnath Yatra was suspended from Jammu due to incessant rain.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and SNSD leader Milorad Dodik are scheduled to meet with Bishop Sergije of Bihać-Petrovac at Rmanj Monastery.

Guaranty Trust Bank (Ghana) Ltd announced its 5th annual Corporate Social Investment initiative, the GTBank Autism Workshop and Consultations, scheduled for August 2026.

Italy is experiencing a trend of commercial desertification, with 45% fewer new shops opening compared to 2014. This decline is particularly noticeable in smaller towns across the peninsula.

The "Domus Paolo VI," which served as accommodation for bishops and cardinals in central Rome for decades, is being sold and converted into a hotel despite resistance.

Shopping at a market in a small Lithuanian town is described as an enjoyable experience, offering not only lower prices but also unique and useful items not found elsewhere.

Gunmen attacked the residence of a Catholic Bishop in Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria, abducting a seminarian. Authorities have launched an urgent appeal for information regarding the incident.
A rat was caught on CCTV 'stealing' 10 rings and two chains from a shop in Karnataka, solving the mystery of missing jewelry during a routine stock count.

A cloudburst in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, has caused damage to shops and vehicles, though no casualties have been reported.
A boy was awarded €38,000 in compensation after his hand became trapped in a lift at a shopping centre in Wicklow.

Norway's sovereign wealth fund, Oljefondet, has purchased a 92% stake in a portfolio of Spanish shopping centers for approximately 15 billion Norwegian kroner, in partnership with Somae Sierra.

Thousands of migrants crossed into the Spanish territory of Ceuta from Morocco, triggering a political backlash and prompting Spanish authorities to return many of them. The event has drawn comparisons to other immigration crises and sparked debate over Europe's response.
Sandwich chain Jersey Mike's has reportedly gone public, achieving a significant valuation of $7.3 billion. The company's journey began with a 17-year-old founder and a single sub shop, growing into a major player in the fast-casual dining sector.

A report investigated the image of Finland created by Helsinki's tourist shops, finding a mix of Russia, Sápmi, and Scandinavia in their offerings, including Vikings and Greenland shirts.
Phoebe Gates' cofounded shopping app Phia is in damage control, issuing refunds to customers affected by a payment attribution scandal.

Gunmen attacked the residence of a Catholic Bishop in Otukpo, Benue State, abducting a seminarian. Authorities have launched an urgent appeal for information regarding the incident.

An investigation was conducted into the cleanliness of shopping carts and baskets in stores across Zagreb.

Founders of Tech Smart Philippines and Samara Baby & Kids discussed how continuous learning and adaptation are crucial for growing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the e-commerce sector, particularly through platforms like Shopee.

Betfred has announced significant job cuts and shop closures, impacting over a tenth of its betting shops, in response to recent gambling tax increases.

Police in Koper are searching for 64-year-old Gabrijel Opeka, who has been missing since Monday, July 27, and was last seen shopping at a store on Krožna cesta.
A Danish donut shop is experiencing immense popularity, with its donuts being quickly sold out. The high demand highlights the success and appeal of their products.

An ATM was blown up, causing damage not only to the bank but also to a nearby shop, post office, and pharmacy. The explosion resulted in significant structural damage to multiple establishments.

Delivery service Glovo has integrated AI models ChatGPT and Claude to provide users with improved search and purchasing functionalities.

A fashion article provides advice on how to style culottes, highlighting them as the perfect length for summer 2026 due to their versatile not-too-long and not-too-short design.

The Philippines' 'tingi' culture, which involves buying products in small, affordable quantities, is being explored as a potential solution to reduce plastic waste. A zero-waste shop set up by a district council provides plastic-free products at accessible prices in a country that uses 164 million sachets daily.

A church in Vienna, taken over by Caritas, is now being used as a versatile community space where people can shop, watch football, and still attend services.

Twenty-five cats were successfully rescued from a shopping mall in southern Japan that was damaged by an earthquake and subsequent explosion. The survival of the cats brought relief after the incident, which gutted a significant portion of the mall.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria held a meeting with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) to discuss the nation's economic situation. The clerics were on a courtesy visit to the President.

The Zamfara State judiciary has organized a training workshop for magistrates, state high court staff, and other stakeholders within the justice system to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Mastercard's CEO expressed confidence that credit cards will 'prevail' in the new era of AI shopping, as the company positions itself for 'agentic commerce'.
The Mossos d'Esquadra are investigating a robbery at a jewelry store in the Mataró Parc shopping center. Videos circulating on social media reportedly show a group of four or five hooded individuals involved in the incident.

Tobi Lütke, the German-born founder of the e-commerce platform Shopify, has sparked debate with his proposals for a reorganization of the electoral system.

Finland's Minister of Education has emphasized the importance of the language of instruction in bridging regional disparities, responding to discussions about 'school shopping' and the impact of foreign-language students on native Finnish students' learning outcomes.

Archbishop Stefan delivered an Ilinden message, urging the cherishing of Ilinden ideals. The message commemorates Ilinden, a significant event in national and church history, honoring Saint Elijah and the ancestors' fight for freedom, justice, and honor.
A man in his 50s who assaulted a security guard during a shoplifting incident in the midlands told the court he was 'on the streets starving with hunger'.

All 25 cats trapped inside a shopping center in Japan, which was devastated by a strong earthquake and subsequent explosion, have been successfully rescued.

Istanbul markets, grocery stores, and kiosks have begun implementing the Mobile DOA system, a handheld device designed to expand the reach of Türkiye's Deposit Return System and boost recycling efforts.

The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck south-eastern Japan on Tuesday has risen to 34, authorities announced today, with thousands of residents now also facing sweltering heat. The disaster management office in Kumamoto prefecture, where the earthquake struck, said seven more bodies had been pulled from the rubble of a shopping centre in […] The post At least 34 dead in Japan earthquake as thousands of households left without power appeared first on ProtoThema English.

The Madras High Court has canceled a First Information Report (FIR) filed against a bishop regarding a discrepancy in a baptism certificate. The court also ruled that routine administrative information cannot be withheld under the Right to Information Act.

An archaeological treasure has been unearthed under a field in Burgenland, Austria, revealing over 120 Roman kilns that indicate a large-scale pottery workshop.

A series of powerful earthquakes, including a magnitude 7, struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan, causing buildings to collapse and leaving several people in cardiac arrest. Thousands have been evacuated as rescuers search for those trapped.

A baker in Prague's Žižkov district has become a local legend, baking strudels for over 20 years from a small workshop in an apartment building, known throughout the city.

An attorney provides essential advice on immediate steps to take if your car is damaged while undergoing service at an official dealership or repair shop.

Surveillance video captured a barefoot individual stealing a life-size Taylor Swift cardboard cutout from a Mister Softee ice cream shop in Camarillo, California.

In war-torn Gaza, a group of Palestinian students has launched an ice cream shop and cafe named Flora. The initiative aims to raise funds to cover their university fees and support their educational pursuits.

An investigation by Fiosrú has concluded that there was no criminal offense committed by An Garda Síochána in the death of Evan Fitzgerald at a Carlow shopping center.

Police in Serbia have arrested a 33-year-old man from the Pančevo area on suspicion of stealing 600,000 dinars, along with a video surveillance system and alarm, from a betting shop.
A brave Paddy Power employee assisted in identifying a robber by pulling at his face during a betting-shop raid in Dublin, with the suspect having a prior conviction for attempted murder.

The contemporary dance festival "Horos" is set to take place in Riga for the first time on July 30-31, featuring local and international artists, with workshops scheduled for July 29.

Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office, organized a workshop to enhance national capacity for primary health care (PHC).

Lithuanian chanterelle mushrooms were spotted in a Polish supermarket, surprising shoppers with prices nearly 10 times higher than in Lithuania.

Camelia pharmacy is urging its customers to update their 'Low Price' loyalty cards, as older cards will only be valid for a few more months. This change will affect discounts for shoppers.

Forum Cinemas Latvia OU has been allowed by the Competition Council to acquire lease rights for cinema premises in the Akropole Alfa shopping center, currently occupied by Cinamon.

Catholic Bishops have met with Nigerian President Tinubu to advocate for free and fair general elections, with the president stating that INEC has maintained neutrality in preparations.

The MCD has directed all 12 zones to close unauthorized meat shops and clear encroachments along the Kanwar Yatra routes, ahead of the pilgrimage which is set to begin on July 30.

President Bola Tinubu informed Catholic Bishops that Nigeria's economy and security are improving, with prosperity on the horizon, as his administration works to stabilize the nation.

A memorial service was held in Cyprus to honor the life and contributions of Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of the Republic, 49 years after his death.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the Nigerian Presidency's criticism of Catholic bishops, particularly Cardinal John Onaiyekan, following a meeting with President Tinubu. The Presidency had accused Onaiyekan of abusing his clerical privilege by commenting on the meeting.

Nigerian opposition figures and religious leaders are criticizing President Tinubu's economic policies, alleging they are negatively impacting citizens and that the administration is misrepresenting economic statistics. They urge the government to heed warnings about the struggling economy.

Authorities have arrested the individual responsible for a fire at the La Vaguada shopping center in Madrid, which led to the evacuation of the premises. The fire reportedly originated in a gyro restaurant.

Þjóðhátíð, or National Festival, held in Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands), is highlighted as the pinnacle of Iceland's Verslunarmannahelgi (Shop Workers’ Weekend) centered around Commerce Day.
A shop owner in the US found her dream of owning a business challenged and impacted by the tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
The Lagos State Government has commenced its 2026 capacity building workshop for local government officers, aiming to enhance public service delivery and governance.

Despite it being Sunday, several stores and shopping centers across Croatia are open for business, with a list provided for consumers to check operating hours.
Explore Tuscany's centuries-old workshops in Florence, Signa, and Montelupo, where generations of women have crafted silk, leather, gold, straw, and ceramics, now designing, leading, and teaching their trades.

An article discusses the deployment of pellet guns for crowd control in various locations, from Santiago to Shopian and Delhi.

Russian forces have launched multiple attacks across Ukraine, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Missile strikes on Kyiv killed at least nine people, while shelling and drone attacks in regions like Zaporizhzhia, Mykolaiv, Poltava, Kherson, and Dnipropetrovsk have caused further deaths and injuries.

Calm has returned to Ceuta and Fnideq, with shops reopening, but many residents remain confused about the events of the past few days.
An item from The Spectator Shop, dated August 1, 2026, featuring a quote: 'Bernie - ‘Look, isn’t that Bill Oddie?’'.
The Spectator Shop announces a Bordeaux wine tasting event hosted by Robert Thompson, scheduled for August 1, 2026.

A 17-year-old assailant opened fire inside a Maryland mall, injuring a 13-year-old boy in the leg. The incident, which caused shoppers to flee, was captured on video and circulated on social media.

Helliskaffi, a new coffee shop run by chef Knútur Hreiðarsson and Theódóra Ingibergsdóttir, has opened its doors in Hellisgerði, Hafnarfjörður.

A massive Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv killed at least nine people and wounded 28, damaging residential buildings, a school, and the Lithuanian Embassy. Ukrainian officials, including President Zelenskyy, urgently requested additional air defense systems and interceptor missiles from international partners.
Amazon has received approximately $600 million in tariff refunds from the Trump administration and plans to return a portion of it to shoppers, with customers having traceable import charges being automatically reimbursed.

Latsco Marine Management, owned by Marianna Latsis and her son Paris Kasidokostas-Latsis, organized a workshop focused on 'Developing Intercultural Cooperation between Greece and the Philippines' for its crews.

A historical piece recounts an unknown story of Albanian Bishop Fan S. Noli sending a letter to Senator John F. Kennedy in 1958, congratulating and supporting his presidential candidacy.
Retail NZ's chief executive, Carolyn Young, states that offenders are entering stores armed with knives, hammers, screwdrivers, and machetes, prompting calls for stronger penalties to address the escalating violence.

Journalists, communicators, bloggers, and civil society youth leaders received training at a two-day national capacity-building workshop to prepare them for the upcoming COP31 conference in November 2026.
Live shopping on eBay in North America has moved beyond its trial phase, experiencing an 8x surge, indicating growing consumer trust and adoption of the platform's live commerce features.

Zagreb's Zrinjevac Park is hosting free dance workshops and concerts every Friday and Saturday from July 31 to August 29, reviving the tradition of city dance parties.

A Columbia Law School study found that AI shopping agents from Amazon and Walmart obscure American-made goods and facilitate false origin claims, with the AI agents reportedly admitting this is a business decision.
The Lefebvrist schism has deepened after the Society of Saint Pius X consecrated four bishops without papal consent on July 1, leading the Vatican to announce the excommunication of not only the bishops but all priests of the Society the following day.

Rick Domeier, a host on the QVC shopping network for over 30 years, has officially announced his plans to retire in December.
The District Prosecutor's Office in Warsaw Praga-Północ is investigating a large fire that destroyed a car dealership, workshop, and customer cars in Warsaw's Targówek district. Initial findings have been released, with further expert conclusions awaited.
The 20-year-old daughter of Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner surprised many by removing her mask during a shopping trip with her mother, after wearing it for nearly seven years.

During her visit to Ghana, the Archbishop of Canterbury vowed to support a £100 million pledge aimed at assisting communities affected by enslavement.

Helsinki is modifying school enrollment boundaries in the Myllypuro area, a change that could result in students being assigned to schools in different districts.

Lidl is presenting new "Super Weekend" offers, including special prices on pork neck, bananas, and ice cream, inviting shoppers to enjoy new flavors during the first weekend of August.

Consumer habits have significantly shifted in recent years, with smart purchasing becoming more crucial than impulsive buying or attractive discounts.

Prosecutors are seeking up to four years in prison for three defendants accused of using violence to steal two cans from a night shop in Frameries. A verdict is expected in two weeks.

A curated 'Weekend Hitlist' provides recommendations on things to see, do, and buy, offering suggestions for leisure and shopping activities.

The Grasshopper Fire near Mt. Hood in Oregon has expanded to over 21,000 acres with no containment, prompting Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices for surrounding areas as scary videos emerge.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, reaffirmed his commitment to a £100 million fund aimed at addressing the legacy of slavery. This pledge was made during his visit to Cape Coast Castle in Ghana, a former slave trading post.
Fortnite's latest update features new Spider-Man and Punisher character skins as part of a 'Brand New Day' collaboration, which players can acquire along with related cosmetic items through the in-game Item Shop.
LAWMA has sealed shops in Tejuosho-Ojuelegba for indiscriminate roadside waste dumping, an action taken to enforce environmental laws and protect public health.

Second-hand clothing stores in Lithuania are undergoing a renaissance, attracting shoppers looking for savings and unique items, with tips provided on how to find rare gems.
Crocs is changing how it reports marketplace sales as the company continues to expand its presence and sales through TikTok Shop.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has reiterated its strong opposition to mining and aggressive development projects, announcing plans to establish a dedicated ecology commission.

Canada's largest grocer, Loblaw, reported increased profits driven by sales of generic GLP-1 drugs, which are up 40% year-to-date, and a rise in bargain-hunting shoppers.

Six of the twelve cinema screens at the Nova Arcada shopping center in Braga have reopened, now under the management of Cinebox. This marks a partial return of cinema operations to the venue.

Bordeaux is experiencing a disrupted summer season, with empty shops and cultural life, as the city grapples with the effects of multiple heatwaves and refugees from nearby wildfires.

The Paphos municipality has cleared tree branches left on a pavement near Archbishop Makarios III lyceum, responding to residents' concerns that they were obstructing pedestrians and posing a road safety hazard.

The 5th edition of the LizBrass festival in Leiria will feature five nights of music centered on brass instruments, offering various workshops and donating part of its profits to the Monte Redondo Philharmonic, which was destroyed by a storm.
A moose was observed on the streets of Jastarnia, Poland, where it reportedly looked at people and into shops. The animal had previously swum to the beach, causing surprise and some fear among onlookers.

A study reveals that 13 schools in Helsinki, predominantly located in the eastern part of the city, are the least popular, with half or more of their students applying to other upper secondary schools.
Weather apps are reportedly putting a damper on America's summer plans, affecting businesses like a Brooklyn beach shop that relies on good weather for sales.

Rockwell has taken near-full control of Alabang Town Center and commissioned architects Carlos Ott and Jun Rodriguez to create a master plan for its redevelopment, aiming to refresh the shopping destination.
A serial 'high end' shoplifter has been sentenced to jail after going on 'a bit of a rampage' of thefts.

Used cardboard boxes are accumulating everywhere, some appearing new, but they are deemed only partially suitable for storing weekly grocery purchases.

Content creators, including Paige Lorenze, are criticizing an antiques shop in Nantucket, Massachusetts, for displaying a 'No Influencers' sign.
Trinity Tatum and Bryce Alakai, the winners of 'Love Island USA,' are reportedly spending their $100,000 prize money in a practical and relatable manner, foregoing immediate shopping sprees.

A new German study has found that spending excessive time online, particularly on activities like gaming, pornography, and online shopping, is associated with higher stress levels and a worse mood. The analysis also indicated that such behavior leads to greater neglect of other activities.

Germany is reportedly considering abolishing its 108-year-old Sunday shopping ban to stimulate its struggling economy, a move that has previously sparked strong reactions in Slovenia.
Simona Mohamsson of the Liberal Party is campaigning on a proposal to provide families with children an additional 5,000 kronor per month, aiming to alleviate financial stress.

An indictment has been filed in Varaždin against a 23-year-old man who falsely reported a bomb in a shopping center and demanded 100,000 euros. He was unsuccessful in his attempt, and the prosecution is seeking an extension of his detention.

A powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, caused significant damage and led to an explosion at the Aeon Mall Kumamoto, resulting in 18 deaths. Rescue teams are searching for survivors amidst the destruction, which has also triggered a massive economic fallout for the region.

Shopska salad is highlighted as an excellent meal for hot weather, with its water-rich ingredients providing essential hydration and refreshment, making it a popular Balkan response to heatwaves.

The article discusses the persistent issues within hotel distribution, arguing that the industry's commercial model, which assumes shopper scarcity, is outdated and explores what changes are on the horizon.
Abdullahi Gali Shitu, a former local government chairman in Kano, Nigeria, has returned to his tailoring business after leaving public office, advocating for vocational skills as a sustainable livelihood over sole reliance on political positions.

The international program 'ReActing as a Star' has issued a call for applications for its 'ReActing+ Regional Acting Workshop,' a two-day event for actors from the region, to be held as part of the 39th Herceg Novi Film Festival.

Inspectors from the National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA) conducted raids on the Romanian coast, issuing 26 fines totaling 280,000 lei and temporarily closing two establishments after checking over 230 restaurants and shops.

The garden at a former kindergarten in Krupka, used by the Arkadie non-profit for its day care and sheltered workshop clients, is undergoing modernization with the help of sponsors after fifty years.

Retailers in Latvia report that alcohol sales restrictions introduced a year ago have not significantly reduced alcohol purchases but have altered consumer buying habits, with people adapting their shopping times.

New land-use rules in rural Ladakh now allow the Chief Secretary and Divisional Commissioner to approve changes in land use for plots up to two acres outside municipal limits, impacting home and shop construction.

Montenegro authorities have arrested three individuals and issued nearly EUR 90,000 in fines to businesses defying the Sunday trading ban. 118 shops were closed as part of the enforcement efforts.

The Archbishop of Cyprus has called for the adoption of Makarios' stance on the Cyprus problem, emphasizing its evolving geopolitical nature. Discussions are ongoing about whether the current situation presents a unique opportunity for resolution and the role of leadership in addressing the long-standing issue.

A mass shooting at an In-N-Out Burger restaurant in Idaho resulted in at least three deaths and several injuries. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief from the company's president.
Russian shelling in the Donetsk region resulted in two deaths and four injuries, also damaging infrastructure, residential buildings, a hotel, and a shopping center.

Jim Bishop, who left high school at fifteen, bought land in the Colorado mountains and spent fifty years building a 48-meter-high castle by himself, which remains free to enter.
The Nigerian Presidency publicly rebuked Catholic bishops following an outburst from Archbishop John Onaiyekan, while also noting the absence of Jonathan and Nwoko from INEC's final list and the APC's backing of Obasanjo against Atiku.

Parents are able to acquire school uniforms for free at a pop-up swap shop, an initiative that organizers hope to make a regular event. This helps families save money on essential school items.
A sign for a pastry shop catering to tourists on Consell de Cent in Barcelona has angered local residents, with the City Council confirming the business is violating regulations.
Prominent Christian leaders, including Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor and Bishop Mike Okonkwo, are slated to attend GOFAMINT’s 70th anniversary and 60th convention in Ogun State.

Stefán Atli Rúnarsson has conducted numerous artificial intelligence workshops in Iceland, guiding people on how to utilize AI effectively and wisely in both their personal and professional lives.

The La Vaguada Shopping Center in Madrid was evacuated after a fire broke out, causing a large column of smoke and resulting in one person suffering mild intoxication.
The Spectator Shop highlights an article titled 'Dredge - ‘We decided to give France a miss this year.’' dated August 1, 2026.
Search operations have concluded following a shopping center collapse in Japan, with authorities confirming that all victims have been located.

Japanese authorities concluded rescue operations at a shopping center damaged by an earthquake after an explosion resulted in seven fatalities. An Italian ambassador was dispatched to Fukuoka following the earthquake.

Höfuðstöðin in Elliðaárdal is hosting a diverse program of family activities this weekend, including art workshops and face painting.

Approximately 70 years before the current surge in AI funding, the Rockefeller Foundation made what is considered the first investment in the history of artificial intelligence. A $7,500 grant from the foundation supported the seminal Dartmouth Workshop.

Nigerian President Tinubu reportedly disagreed with the Catholic bishops' assessment of the country's economy and insecurity during a meeting. This indicates a divergence in views between the government and religious leaders on critical national issues.
Phia, a shopping app co-founded by Bill Gates' daughter Phoebe Gates, is refunding brands after admitting it earned commissions on sales it did not drive, following an investigation into its practices.

Many are surprised by how much diamond engagement rings depreciate, but the secondhand market still offers value for those looking to buy or sell.

Kansas City's Café Corazón is showcased as a model community space, where Latin American and Indigenous traditions are central to shaping its hospitality, safety, and commitment to community responsibility.

Filipino founders are successfully building businesses on e-commerce platforms like TikTok Shop and Shopee, selling a diverse range of products from contact lenses to gadgets.

Gabrielė Kuzmickienė, who dreamed of baking cakes since her teenage years, successfully opened a cafe-dessert shop with her husband in a small town, exceeding expectations.

A Slovenian man has been apprehended by criminal investigators in Istria on suspicion of shoplifting and was also fined 1320 euros for traffic offenses committed without a driver's license.

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds surprised Brighton passersby with a secret rooftop performance on a record shop balcony, ahead of their larger advertised show in Preston Park.

A minor has been detained on suspicion of robbing a betting shop, stealing 365 euros and threatening an employee with a knife.

Russian forces attacked four districts in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region and a residential neighborhood in Kramatorsk, resulting in two deaths and three injuries. A shopping center in Pavlohrad was also set on fire during the attacks.

The appearance of 'shrunk' soft drink packages on store shelves in Lithuania has raised questions among residents, who suspect 'shrinkflation' due to a newly introduced tax, although retailers attribute bottle sizes to manufacturers.
A new culinary map has been launched in Denmark, making it easier for consumers to find small farm shops and local producers in a region abundant with fresh produce like new potatoes and local honey.

City food regulators in Baguio City, Philippines, confiscated nearly 260 kilograms of spoiled chicken from a meat shop following a consumer complaint.

The owner of Meredith's DIY Hardware and Ironmongery, a shop that has been a fixture at Yate Shopping Centre near Bristol since 1965, is retiring after six decades.

The world of Spider-Man is coming to Akropolis shopping centers in Vilnius, Klaipėda, and Šiauliai on August 1-2 and 8-9. Families can enjoy free entertainment inspired by the latest film, "Spider-Man: No Way Home."

Charity shops offer the unique pleasure of discovering hidden video game gems amidst countless outdated Fifas, Wii Fits without controllers, and partially finished quiz show games, for those willing to dig through bargain bins.

Shopping habits at e-pharmacies in Lithuania are evolving, with a growing demand for quick delivery of health products, such as thermometers, allergy medication, or baby essentials, often within an hour.
Food critic Lucinda O’Sullivan has compiled a list of the 33 best places to eat across Ireland this summer, featuring a range of establishments from long-standing favorites to new venues, offering diverse dishes and scenic views.

A 67-year-old Slovenian woman was arrested in a shopping center parking lot near Graz, Austria, for breaking into cars.

The European Union is set to prohibit small single-use plastic packaging, commonly found in hotels, restaurants, and shops, starting in 2030. Businesses are reportedly beginning preparations for the new regulations.

Nearly half of those killed were caught up in two major incidents: Nippon Paper Industries' paper mill, which suffered major structural damage, and Aeon's shopping mall, where a possible gas explosion occurred

A local kebab shop in Klaipėda is highlighted as an affordable dining option, potentially offering a cheaper alternative to the more expensive Palanga.
Amazon received $600 million in tariff refunds from the Trump administration, which the company plans to pass along to some of its customers. This refund relates to tariffs imposed during the previous administration.

K-pop star JENNIE is showcasing new Ray-Ban glasses featuring light-adapting transition lenses that seamlessly shift from clear indoors to tinted outdoors, available in multiple colors.

Helsinki plans to modify school enrollment areas to address segregation, particularly in East Helsinki where local schools' regular classes are often avoided by parents like Matti Seise, who 'school-shopped' for a better school.
Interior designers offer advice on eight common mistakes to avoid when thrifting for furniture and decor, providing tips for successful second-hand shopping.

Prague Archbishop Stanislav Přibyl expressed frustration and a desire to restore trust in the Catholic Church, particularly its leadership, in light of past scandals within his office.
AI providers like ChatGPT are actively discovering and utilizing old books, including those from German antiquarian shops, for their data needs. Reports indicate that companies are even destroying millions of physical books in the process of feeding information to their chatbots.

The Novo Sarajevo Municipal Council has approved a proposal to amend the urban plan for 'Bosna Auto - Grbavica II,' confirming that the former Strojorad ruin will be replaced by a shopping center, cinema, and other facilities.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullaly, visited the Manhyia Palace in Ghana to foster stronger relationships between the Asante Kingdom and the Anglican Church.

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has begun sealing shops and commercial plazas along the Tejuosho–Ojuelegba corridor for violating the state's waste management regulations.

A municipal police officer in Binningen, Switzerland, was caught shoplifting at a Migros self-checkout, leading to the termination of his employment.

With Spider-Man swinging back into theaters, a shopping guide has been released to help fans celebrate their favorite friendly neighborhood superhero.
Canadian media reported on a controversial proposal to remove voting rights from the poorest citizens and retirees while extending them to the wealthiest, a concept discussed by the owner of Shopify.

KUMAMOTO, Japan - Up to 23 people were feared dead on Thursday after a major earthquake in Japan, with four bodies now pulled out from the tangled wreckage of a shopping mall ripped apart by a suspected massive gas explosion.
Live shopping startup Whatnot is reportedly in discussions to raise a new round of funding. The latest investment is expected to value the company at approximately $20 billion.

Archbishop Eamon Martin has held discussions with senior representatives of OpenAI Ireland regarding Pope Leo's encyclical letter, Magnifica Humanitas.

Families are facing financial strain due to rising back-to-school costs, leading many to seek the cheapest ways to finance their school shopping if they need to borrow money.

Youth and youth workers from seven European countries are convening in Covilhã from August 1st to 9th for a week of training, workshops, and artistic activities focused on inclusion and citizenship.

Pope Leo has promoted an archbishop who previously barred Nancy Pelosi from receiving Communion to one of the Vatican's highest courts.

The Garda watchdog has concluded its investigation, finding no wrongdoing by gardaí who responded to a shooting incident at the Fairgreen Shopping Centre in Carlow on June 1, 2025, where Evan Fitzgerald discharged several shots.

New data suggests that TikTok Shop is rapidly becoming one of the most crucial platforms for discovery and commerce within the beauty industry, making it a channel difficult for brands to overlook.

Changing school districts in East Helsinki are sparking debate, with Riikka Purra of the Finns Party calling 'school shopping' a 'logical reaction' and SDP's Heinäluoma expressing understanding for parents.

An explosion at a shopping center in Kashima city on Japan's Kyushu island, which occurred after an earthquake, was captured on video, showing significant damage to the facility.

Pope Leo has appointed Bishop Ger Nash to lead both the Ferns and Ossory dioceses, marking a historic shake-up within the church.

A reporter's simple shopping trip in Glasgow turned into an unexpected lesson about the intricacies of Scottish banknotes.

Workers in a southern Japan shopping mall experienced a massive 7.1-magnitude earthquake that rattled the building, throwing them to the floor. An hour later, a subsequent disaster struck, turning the initial quake into a more severe incident.

A Chinese national and three Thai accomplices have been arrested in Thailand for allegedly stealing over 29 million baht (US$896,000) from more than 1,200 Chinese tourists.

Iute has launched 'Iute Market,' a new online store offering users the ability to purchase hundreds of products from various categories directly within the application, integrating shopping, payment, and loyalty programs.