M&S Opens Biggest Standalone Food Store, Expands Value Lines

Marks & Spencer opened its largest standalone food store on Wednesday and added more products to its Family Value Lines, the company said. The new store, located in the North West of England, spans 25,000 square feet and carries the full M&S Food range.

The expansion comes as M&S pushes to double the size of its food business. The Family Value Lines, which now include 150 products, are priced to compete with discounters while maintaining M&S's quality positioning, the company said.

M&S has been investing heavily in its food division as part of a broader turnaround strategy. The standalone food stores allow the retailer to reach customers who do not live near a full department store. The new location is the first of several planned for 2025, according to the company.

The Family Value Lines expansion adds 30 new products across fresh meat, dairy, and cupboard staples. M&S said the lines have seen double-digit sales growth since their launch last year.

Shares in M&S were little changed on the news. The stock is up roughly 15% over the past 12 months, outperforming the FTSE 250.

M&S CEO Stuart Machin said in a statement that the company is "focused on giving customers the best quality at the best prices, every day."