M&S is considering a significant expansion to support its online sales growth.
- The retailer is exploring a large new warehouse site in the Midlands.
- This move aims to bolster its online fashion and homeware sales target of 50%.
- Recent improvements in M&S’s online experience have boosted customer engagement.
- Automation and supply chain refinement are key strategies for M&S’s growth.
M&S, a major retail entity, is evaluating options for a substantial new warehouse in the Midlands region, indicative of its strategic push to enhance its online sales capabilities. The potential site, spanning over one million square feet in Northamptonshire, represents a significant investment decision still under consideration as per property insiders.
The retailer has recorded approximately 9.4 million customers actively shopping online, yet a majority of sales transactions remain within physical stores. M&S has set a strategic objective where 50% of its fashion and homeware sales are to be conducted online, necessitating such infrastructure expansions.
Enhancements to M&S’s online platform have focused on elevating the user experience. Features like personalised homepages, increased browsing speeds, streamlined navigation, and refreshed visuals are pivotal in attracting and retaining online consumers.
In a related development, M&S’s recent capital markets day underscored its success in optimising its supply chain. Since 2018, it has decreased its warehouse and distribution centres from 16 to 10, achieving £45 million in savings.
Moreover, M&S is advancing its warehouse automation initiatives, as evidenced by its newly automated facility in Bradford. A company spokesperson reiterated that modernising the supply chain remains central to its growth strategy, highlighting continuous market evaluations.
M&S remains committed to enhancing its infrastructure and online presence to support its long-term growth objectives.
