Marks & Spencer pumps investment into northern stores

M&S injected £20m into northern stores this year, including the first full-line branch to open in the region since the start of the pandemic two years ago, in Chesterfield’s Ravenside Retail Park in Derbyshire.

In 2023, M&S’ northern openings will include two “major new stores” in Leeds White Rose and Liverpool One shopping centres.

The openings are part of M&S’ space rotation programme, through which the retailer is reshaping its estate to open more food space and bigger and better full-line stores, including by relocation.

Marks & Spencer retail operations director Sacha Berendji said: “While other retailers go online, or sadly disappear, we are committed to having great shops. That means having the right store, in the right place, with the right space to serve our customers the way they want to shop today.

“This week sees our rotation strategy put into action across this region, where we have secured some outstanding sites – including [yesterday’s] Chesterfield opening – and a strong pipeline coming in Leeds and Liverpool next year.”

M&S’ investment was welcomed by Chesterfield Borough Council leader Tricia Gilby. “The opening of this new Marks & Spencer store in Chesterfield represents a significant investment in our borough,” she said.

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