UK retailer Marks and Spencer has declined to comment on reports it is looking to start food retailing in India.

The retail group operates a joint venture with Reliance Retail to run clothing stores in India. The two companies are understood to be seeking permission from India’s Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) for a move into food retail, according to Fashion United India.

The retailer operates around 28 stores in India selling clothing and home products in the country. While it does sell ambient food in some of its overseas stores, it does not in India.

According to Fashion United India, M&S has already started booking larger store locations in new malls ahead of rolling out its food business if it gets the go ahead. The retailer will only likely sell packed foods such as deli and bakery items and they will form part of the fashion and home products divisions under one roof.

However, a spokesperson for the retailer declined to comment on the reports when contacted by just-food.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.