Marks & Spencer is ramping up its transformation strategy with record levels of investment across both its store estate and food supply chain, underpinning its ambition to deliver long-term growth and become a destination for the weekly shop.

This financial year, M&S is investing more than £300 million into its store rotation programme, with 16 new openings, nine extensions, and 12 renewals planned. These projects will showcase the retailer’s latest store formats, designed around brighter entrances, wider aisles, and modern layouts that bring together Food, Fashion, Home, and Beauty in a more engaging environment.

Recent examples include the expanded full-line store at Nugent Shopping Park in Orpington, which now spans 37,700 sq ft and features a dedicated beauty hall alongside an enlarged fashion offer. Similar renewals have been delivered in Aberdeen Union Square, Warrington’s Gemini Retail Park, and Liverpool’s Mersey Retail Park, reflecting M&S’s commitment to creating larger, fresher spaces across the UK.

In parallel, the business has unveiled the largest supply chain investment in its history, committing £340 million to a new automated National Distribution Centre at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal. At 1.3 million sq ft, the site will open in 2029 and play a pivotal role in supporting M&S’s ambition to double the size of its food business. The facility will enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product availability, while also creating 2,000 construction jobs and 1,000 permanent roles once operational.

Combined, these investments illustrate how M&S is modernising both its front-end customer experience and back-end infrastructure. By strengthening its network, expanding its food halls, and rolling out renewed full-line stores, the retailer is positioning itself for sustained growth and sharper customer focus.

Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals