Overview
- Official lists highlight target areas across the UK, including multiple Bristol locations and 13 towns in Essex, with inclusion indicating consideration rather than confirmed openings.
- M&S plans to open or renew 20 stores by the end of the financial year in April, with reports indicating around 800 new jobs tied to the programme.
- Site criteria call for large formats of at least 21,500 sq ft on plots over two acres with prominent access and dedicated parking for more than 150 vehicles.
- The chain has acquired 12 former Homebase sites for conversion into large standalone Food stores, with the first opening before Christmas in Cannock and a flagship Bath store slated to open next month.
- The strategy aims for a long-term footprint of 420 Food stores and 180 full-line stores, with more than half the estate expected to be in the renewal format by April 2028.