Is there any good news out there?

M & S share price plummets, Starbucks closes 500 outlets in the USA, oil price hits $146 a barrel, mortgage approvals down by 28%. All within a week. Was walking around Kingston town centre today and noticed that the furniture retailer New Heights has closed down. Also there was a 50% off sale at John Lewis.

So is anybody thriving at the moment? Apparently luxury brands are doing OK. Fashion sales at Harrods are up by 30% and Harvey Nicks is in pretty good shape. Equally discounters are continuing to grow. Like the Germans, we're discovering the joy of Aldi and Lidl. Key message for me. You either have to offer exceptional quality or exceptional value to survive nowadays.

Apparently alcohol sales remain buoyant. The best way to deal with the recession? You've guessed it..head for the pub.