Marks & Spencer is embarking on a significant transformation of its Newcastle store with a £13 million investment, further solidifying its presence in the North East.
- The makeover of the Northumberland Street store will involve a comprehensive redesign, beginning this month and continuing into early 2024.
- During the renovation, the store will remain operational, showcasing a phased approach to its refurbishment.
- A key feature of the transformation is the expansion of the mobile “Scan & Shop” system, enhancing convenience for the store’s clientele.
- This latest investment demonstrates Marks & Spencer’s enduring commitment to its North East clientele, following previous enhancements in nearby locations.
Marks & Spencer has announced a substantial transformation of its Newcastle store, part of a broader £13 million investment in the North East region. This refurbishment will focus on the Northumberland Street location, which is slated to undergo significant changes from top to bottom. The renovations will commence this month, with a new foodhall expected to reach completion later this year, while improvements to the clothing, home, and beauty departments are scheduled for completion by early 2024.
In an effort to maintain customer access during this ambitious project, the store will remain open throughout the renovation period, adopting a phased approach to the redesign. This strategy ensures that while construction is ongoing, customers can continue to shop with minimal disruption.
One of the standout features of the Newcastle transformation is the extension of the mobile “Scan & Shop” system. Currently, this system, which allows customers to use their smartphones to scan and bag items while shopping, is utilized by approximately 33,000 customers weekly. The expansion of this technology in the Newcastle store is poised to enhance customer convenience and streamline the shopping experience.
This investment follows a preceding financial commitment to the North East, which saw Marks & Spencer modernize its Newcastle Silverlink Shopping Park store and the Gosforth foodhall. Regional Manager Helen Cowie emphasized the retailer’s longstanding presence in the area, stating, “M&S has been a part of local communities across the North East for well over a hundred years.” She expressed pride in the continued evolution of their services, highlighting this new venture’s role in enhancing the shopping experience for local customers.
The renovation is also part of a larger strategy that includes a £12.5 million investment in London’s store portfolio, which represents the creation of new job opportunities within that region. Collectively, these undertakings reflect Marks & Spencer’s strategic initiative to improve its retail footprint across the UK, ensuring that its offerings remain appealing and competitive in an evolving retail landscape.
Marks & Spencer’s Newcastle store transformation underscores its commitment to enhancing customer experiences while strengthening its local ties.
