Marks and Spencer has revealed that it is planning to return to France with a combination of its department stores and its Simply Food convenience outlets.

The UK retailer is planning to open its first department store on the Champs-Elysées ahead of the Christmas trading period.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

It said it was in “advanced talks” with SSP, one of its UK franchise partners, around opening a number of its Simply Food outlets.

The retailer said it is considering “strategic locations” for its food stores in and around Paris as well as a “limited number of locations from which to sell a larger clothing and food offer”.

M&S CEO Marc Bolland said: “Marks and Spencer has great brand awareness here in France and a place in customers’ hearts. We’re very excited to be returning with an e-commerce and retail offer to delight customers with our full range of clothing and home products, and the exceptional food from our Paris store.”

Late last year, speculation arose that the retailer was looking to re-acquire a number of the European properties it sold when it exited Continental Europe in 2001. There were rumours that it was attempting to buy back some of the18 French stores that were let go in a deal with Galeries Lafayette.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now