The five most important retail tech news stories of the week

It’s Friday, the week is nearly done, so let’s kick back and reflect on another eventful week for the retail technology space. Here's your briefing on some of the most important and interesting stories from the past five days.

1. UK online grocers gain extra £1.9bn due to impact of Covid-19

The UK online food and grocery retail market is forecast to grow 25.5% in 2020, gaining an extra £1.9 billion, as the likes of Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose respond to the coronavirus outbreak by expanding fulfilment capacity.

2. Afterpay announces Tencent as substantial shareholder

Chinese tech giant Tencent has bought a 5% stake, worth around A$390 million, in Australian buy now, pay later specialist Afterpay.

3. New Waitrose Enfield centre to double grocery deliveries in London

Waitrose has opened a six acre customer fulfilment centre in Enfield, North London, as it looks to double its online grocery orders in the capital by September.

The site is creating 370 new jobs, building to 850 when at full capacity, by which time it will be adding 13,000 weekly delivery slots for London customers.

4. GMB wants action following resignation of Amazon VP Tim Bray

The GMB union has called on the Employment Select Committee to seek evidence from Tim Bray, the Amazon Vice President who recently resigned over the sacking of workers during the coronavirus outbreak.

5. Marks & Spencer stores offer delivery service via Deliveroo

Marks & Spencer has launched its first home delivery service, just ahead of its highly touted partnership with Ocado.

Around 130 M&S food and household items can be purchased through Deliveroo. Deliveries will take 30 minutes and there is a £4.99 charge. The service is available from 142 outlets across the country.