Marks & Spencer has announced an ambitious development plan that will see 12 new food stores open across England by 2026, using the same number of former Homebase sites. The project will create more than 550 new jobs and reinforce the British chain's transformation and growth strategy.
The new openings are part of M&S's store rotation and renewal programme, which aims to renovate half of its store fleet by 2027/28, with the aim of reaching 420 larger and more modern food stores, along with 180 more productive full line stores.
The first new stores, in Abingdon and Cannock (both 1.700m²), are due to open by the end of 2025. Further stores will follow in Farnham, Godalming (which will house the largest ever standalone food store, at 2.000m²), and Northampton by summer 2026.
The new stores will feature more spacious interiors, wide aisles, large car parks, bakeries with cafés and large frozen food areas. They will also feature market-style fruit and veg aisles and Click & Collect points to order the full fashion, home and beauty ranges via M&S.com.
Stuart Machin, CEO of M&S, said: “Investing in new and renovated stores is a priority of our transformation. These openings in strategic areas will stimulate growth and offer customers an even better M&S shopping experience.”
The openings follow a strong year in which new stores exceeded sales expectations by 20%. All projects are subject to planning approval and will include sustainable solutions, with LED lighting and low-impact systems.
