Retail spending in 2012 is likely only to rise by 1.2%, the third lowest rate in almost four decades.
Oak Furniture Land is to more than double store numbers over the next 18 months after strong growth in the past year.
Investing in new technology could boost retailers’ sales by 4% within two years according to eBay.
Online homewares specialist Occa-Home has received investment from William Currie Group, the early stage investor which has previously backed Asos and The Hut.
Leeds-based turnaround group Endless has bought Bathstore for £15m in cash.