M&S to open 150 new food stores — theguardian.com

Marks & Spencer is planning to open 150 new food stores in the next three years as its groceries continue to outsell clothes and homewares. Marc Bolland, the chief executive, said he wanted to double the pace of expansion in food as the company continued to take market share from rivals. M&S called a halt to new clothing and homewares stores earlier this year. The retailer is also taking its standalone food stores into Europe via its first international food franchise deal after a successful trial of six stores in Holland. Around 10 stores will open at stations and airports in France in a new partnership with Relay, a convenience store chain. M&S currently only has two stores in France both of which sell a mix of food and clothing. Further food outlets will also open in Holland in BP petrol forecourts after a successful trial with the fuel company.

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