// Marks & Spencer will open a new 98,000 sq ft flagship store in Lakeside in Essex next spring
// The move comes as M&S continues to transform its store estate and improve the shopping experience
M&S is to open a new flagship store at the Lakeside shopping centre in Essex.
The retailer will move from its current location to a bigger 98,000 sq ft store that will increase M&S’ visibility within the centre and improve access.
The new store will open in spring next year and will house clothing, home and a new M&S foodhall that will have direct access to an upgraded car park that forms part of a £20 million investment by Lakeside owner SGS.
M&S’ relocation comes as the retailer continues its store estate transformation, investing to make sure they have the right stores in the right locations to offer customers an improved shopping experience.
READ MORE: M&S Marble Arch store ‘unnecessarily in jeopardy’ if rebuild plans blocked
Late last month it opened a new concept store at the Roaring Meg retail park in Stevenage.
The store includes a food hall that has a market stall feel and includes a wine-tasting zone and a refill station for products including pasta, rice and cereal.
It also houses a Good Move activewear shop, a large beauty department and an in-store opticians.
Of its new Lakeside store, Global Mutual head of European retail asset management Steve Gray said: “The new store will significantly increase M&S’ prominence within the centre, as well as accessibility – together acting as key footfall drivers.
“In a fast-changing retail landscape, brands are investing to optimise and drive maximum value from their physical offer. M&S’ move reflects this and is indicative of wider demand for prime space like ours here at Lakeside.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
