The pureplay grocer’s chief financial officer Duncan Tatton-Brown said that the ongoing pandemic had thrown up some issues for the joint venture in terms of communicating between the two brands and with suppliers, but maintained that the switchover date from Waitrose products to Marks & Spencer lines was still on track.

“Clearly there are some constraints in terms of what we’re going through in terms of how we’re able to meet and discuss, both between ourselves and with suppliers. But, generally, most people are aware that most businesses can continue with different ways of interfacing.

“As much as one can guarantee anything at this point in time, consider this a guarantee. We expect it go well and assume no change whatsoever to the date of the switchover.”