Marks & Spencer (M&S) is a well-known premium food and retail store in the UK. To keep growing, M&S is focusing on expanding its presence in international markets.
Last year, M&S reported sales of £13 billion, with food sales increasing by 13%. This shows that their food strategy is crucial for future success. The company has opened several new stores, including eight in the last financial year, and now has 434 international locations compared to 1,058 in the UK.
Four years ago, M&S launched its food range in over 100 countries, allowing people around the world to access popular items like Percy Pig sweets and Luxury Gold Teabags. Today, they have 39 global websites and continue to build their international team for a revamped approach. Key leaders include Manish Kapoor for India and Victoria Jones as international commercial director.
Mark Lemming, appointed in 2024, is working on strengthening M&S’s international foundations. His goal is to promote sustainable growth through partnerships and a robust online presence. Lemming believes that having an experienced leadership team is vital for the company’s international plans.
As M&S expands its global reach, it works with 16 franchise partners worldwide, which help operate nearly half of its international stores. This collaboration is key to distributing their brand and products effectively.
What does this mean for food and drink manufacturers in Europe and beyond? M&S is keen to build its food offerings. CEO Stuart Machin emphasizes a clear plan for the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. Their food model prioritizes a carefully selected range of products and a stable supply chain. Seasonal innovations, like festive biscuits and unique gift items, also help M&S stand out during holidays.
Internationally, M&S focuses on products similar to those in the UK. This includes popular items such as packaged snacks, tea, and seasonal treats. They have also begun tapping into trends for health-focused products, like milk kefir and berry shots, meeting the rising demand for functional foods.
Currently, food offerings in M&S’s international stores largely consist of pre-packaged products available in the UK. However, there are also frozen meals, meats, and other items that mirror UK offerings. Websites in various countries allow for a broader selection for online shopping, including deliverable options in places like Hong Kong.
While M&S’s international food selection may not yet provide extensive opportunities for local suppliers, the focus on expanding their reach could open new doors for collaboration in the future.
Check out this related article: Discover the Bold Flavors of Shanghainese and Sichuan Cuisine at Mian & Bao: A Delicious Dining Experience Awaits!
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