Analysis: Are market halls like M&S’ the future of grocery retail?

M&S Clapham

M&S’ new market hall store concept looks good, but is it economically viable on a large scale? John Ryan explores whether this is the future of grocery retail.

Roll up, roll up. Get a load of these juicy toms…

Market halls are making a come back and are being adopted by mainstream retailers.

M&S has transformed its fashion and food store in Clapham Junction branch to a (very large) Simply Food-cum-market-style emporium.

The 15,000 sq ft store, underpinned by efficient checkout tech, reminds those who might be sceptical that M&S is a retailer still capable of surprise. It is also a signal that the management at M&S are aware of what’s been happening elsewhere as far as food retailing is concerned.

 

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