Marks & Spencer Opens New Store at Lakeside

Marks & Spencer has opened a new store at Lakeside, in Thurrock, Essex. This move is part of M&S’s strategic plan to revitalise its presence in the retail industry amidst a challenging economic environment.

The new Lakeside store, sprawling across 97,000 square feet, was officially inaugurated on Wednesday, 15th November. This store is not just another addition to M&S’s portfolio; it is a significant component of M&S’s ambitious plan to open nine stores throughout November, marking the largest ever monthly expansion in the company’s history​​​​.

This expansion strategy involves an investment of £80 million, aiming to reinforce bricks and mortar retail and creating over 2,200 local jobs across the UK. Notably, the Lakeside store is part of M&S’s broader initiative to invest around £500 million in its store rotation program, ultimately generating over 3,400 new jobs nationwide​​​​.

At Lakeside, the new M&S store is a paradigm of modern retail, offering an expansive Clothing department with the latest collections in womenswear, kidswear, and menswear. It also features a refreshed Beauty department and a Foodhall that echoes a fresh-market ambience. The store includes a 140-seat M&S Café, exuding an award-winning design, and is expected to be a significant footfall driver, especially during the festive shopping season​​​​.