Mike Ashley criticizes Andy Burnham's high street plans

Retail billionaire Mike Ashley has publicly criticized Prime Minister Andy Burnham's plans to revive Britain's high streets, calling them "delusional" and warning they will further devastate retailers unless fundamental issues like business rates and employment costs are addressed. In a letter sent to Downing Street on Thursday, August 27, 2026, the founder of Frasers Group and Sports Direct accused the Prime Minister of prioritizing "media soundbites" over practical solutions to the country's economic challenges.