Marks & Spencer (M&S) is celebrating its 130th anniversary of trading in Wales this March. From its humble beginnings as a Penny Bazaar market stall in Cardiff's Hall in March 1895, M&S has grown to become a trusted retailer in the Welsh community.
M&S’s journey in Wales began with further Penny Bazaar stalls in Swansea (1902) and Newport (1908), followed by the transformation into larger department stores in prime high street locations, including Cardiff and Swansea in 1932, and Rhyl, Wrexham, and Llandudno in 1936. This expansion reflected the growing popularity of M&S with Welsh shoppers.
M&S has 22 owned stores across Wales including twelve full line and nine M&S Food stores. There are also 26 M&S franchise stores across Wales.
Recent store renewals in Cardiff, Culverhouse Cross, and Llandudno in 2022 demonstrate M&S’s continued investment in Wales and its commitment to providing customers with a modern and enjoyable shopping experience.
M&S is a proud of employer of more than 2,500 employees across Wales. M&S has been a pioneer in promoting the Welsh language in the workplace and in 1993, Cardiff staff helped pilot a scheme to incorporate Welsh into everyday work, leading to participation in the UK government’s ‘Welsh into the workplace’ campaign. This initiative encouraged activities such as staff conducting till transactions in Welsh.
M&S is proud to have its stores in Wales led by Allison Jenkins, Regional Manager in South Wales and David Hughes, Regional Manager in North Wales, who are both proud Welsh natives, bringing a unique understanding and passion to their roles.
Allison Jenkins, Regional Manager for M&S in South Wales commented:
"We are incredibly proud to celebrate 130 years in Wales. This milestone is a testament to the loyalty of our local customers and the dedication of our colleagues. Our teams look forward to continuing to offer great quality and trusted value to our customers in Wales for many years to come, whilst supporting our Welsh suppliers.”
As M&S approached this milestone, the company celebrated its Welsh producers and suppliers during Welsh Food Fortnight in 2024. This included showcasing its Collection sourdough loaves and baguettes, made to an exclusive recipe at the award-winning Village Bakery in North Wales which is run by third-generation bakers Robin and Christen Jones.
David Hughes, Regional Manager for M&S in North Wales commented: "As we celebrate this milestone, we're not only reflecting on our history but also looking forward to the future. Wales is home to some truly exceptional food producers, and we're passionate about showcasing their quality on our shelves. From the 2,500 Select Farmers we work with in Wales, to the delicious selection of products from Welsh suppliers, we are excited to be bringing the very best of Wales to M&S customers across the UK.”
