What is Marks & Spencer? Marks & Spencer Review, Features

Founded in 1884, Marks & Spencer (M&S) is a leading British retailer providing quality, great value food, clothing and home furnishings to millions of customers around the world.

About Marks & Spencer

Marks & Spencer has opened 600 branches in various cities and regions in the UK, and 285 branches in 40 countries and regions around the world, including Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Russia, Romania, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. In 2008, Marks & Spencer opened its first branch in mainland China in Shanghai.

Operational Model

Marks & Spencer implements different e-commerce models in different countries. It has established websites in countries with a large customer base, such as Australia and New Zealand, and in some less developed markets, it has established stores on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Zalando and Myntra. In addition, in the research and development of food products, Marks & Spencer has also been continuously conducting research and development with high hygiene standards. In the 1970s, it successfully launched fresh food products that can be eaten immediately, including sandwiches and cooked dishes. Inheriting the century-old fine traditions of the United Kingdom, Marks & Spencer also adheres to the five major brand philosophies of quality, value, service, innovation and trust.

M&S China

M&S has opened 8 branches in mainland China; they are located in Nanjing West Road, Yuyuan Garden, Skymall, Century Oriental Plaza, Ningbo, Wanda Plaza, Xinbei, Changzhou, Wuyue Plaza, Longwan Wanda Plaza, Wenzhou and Hanjie Commercial Street, Wuhan. The 8th store of Marks & Spencer in Shanghai will be located in Hongqiao Shanghai City Shopping Center in Hongqiao area, and it is planned that the store will officially meet consumers in 2013. The cooperation between Marks & Spencer and Wanda Group has accelerated its expansion in mainland China.

Development History

-In 1884, Michael Marks rented a stall in Leeds Market, England, and advertised that every item was only one cent.

-In 1894, Michael Marks invited Tom Spencer to become a partner to run the business together.

-In 1928, The St Michael trademark first appeared as a mark to guarantee product quality and value. It was initially used only on certain food products. After 1950, all products sold had the St Michael logo.

-In 1930, Café Bars was established to provide daily necessities for the general public during World War II.

-In 1933, the employee welfare department was formally established, and all employees enjoyed medical and catering services, as well as benefits including drama clubs, sports days, and union holidays.

-In 1975, stores were opened in Paris and Brussels, officially entering the European market.

-In 1999, a shopping website was established, providing 24-hour online product services.

-In 2002, Marks & Spence became the first food retailer to use free-range eggs.

-In 2007, the first store in Taiwan opened in Dream Mall, Kaohsiung.