EV Policy: The UK launched a consultation on a zero-emission vehicle mandate, aiming to end sales of new petrol/diesel cars by 2030 and require all new cars/vans to be zero emission by 2035, with EV sales up and its Electric Car Grant cited as helping drivers switch. AI for Retail Ops: Octane debuted an AI operating system for convenience stores, designed to run day-to-day tasks across pricing, inventory, invoices, fuel, cash, labor and loss prevention while keeping operators in control. AI Fraud Tools: TruthScan released a Fake PDF Detector beta that flags AI-generated or tampered documents in seconds, returning a risk score and heatmap for changes. Consumer Mood Watch: U.S. consumer sentiment fell in August as retail sales disappointed and worries about inflation and purchasing power returned. Retail Leadership: Home Depot said CEO Ted Decker is taking temporary medical leave, while the company’s Pro-focused strategy and store footprint remain central. Food & Brand Moves: Ferrero agreed to buy Purely Elizabeth to expand better-for-you breakfast; Oreo launched three limited-edition cookie flavors with a fan vote for a comeback. New Shopping Experience: SleePare opened a Seattle “try & buy” mattress showroom so shoppers can compare online brands in person. Product Safety Recall: Tahina and halva products were recalled in Canada due to undeclared peanut. Tech Hardware: Fairphone confirmed the Fairphone 6+ launch with a removable battery and upgraded internals.