M&S has disclosed a list of 500 potential locations for future store openings. Last year’s update also announced plans to launch or refurbish 20 M&S stores, creating 800 jobs. New stores in Northwich, Abingdon, and Stonehaven are set to open soon.
Additionally, upcoming store openings in Farnham, Northampton, and Godalming, which will be M&S’ largest standalone food store, are expected in the spring and summer of 2026. M&S is focusing on expanding into areas without current stores like Hove, Marlborough, and Wallingford.
The supermarket is seeking sites across the UK capable of providing 18,000sqft (25,000sqft gross) of trading space. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director of M&S Food, expressed confidence in exploring new locations nationwide. The company aims to bring the best shopping experience to customers by strategically placing stores in the right locations.
Following a successful holiday season, M&S reported a 5.6% growth in food sales but a 2.9% decline in fashion, home, and beauty sales. The company attributed reduced high street footfall to lower in-store spending and noted challenges from a recent cyber attack impacting its operations.
Looking forward, M&S plans to restructure its business for growth in an uncertain consumer environment by enhancing store offerings and cost reduction measures.