Marks & Spencer has officially opened its new store in the Leeds, White Rose shopping centre, marking a significant moment for local shoppers. The store manager, Justine Brook, along with the beloved Percy Pig™, cut the ribbon at 10:00 on May 25, 2023, welcoming the community with open arms.
This grand opening follows an 18-week program to transform the former Debenhams store into a flagship M&S location, replacing the smaller existing store in the shopping centre. The new store is split over two floors, featuring a gross floor area of 130,000 sq ft, with 97,000 sq ft of net sales space, including a goods reception/service yard on the ground floor.
A highlight of the new store is the 20,000 sq ft Foodhall, designed to the latest standards, along with Clothing & Home departments that meet concept design standards. Shoppers will find two new escalators, two new passenger lifts, two new goods lifts, and two new scissor lifts in the service yard. Additionally, new mechanical plant and refrigeration equipment have been installed on the roof.
Food offerings include new CLX tills, a bakery, a pizza oven, and a hospitality prep area, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. The store also features shared customer and staff toilets, along with new back-of-house offices and staff facilities.
We are proud to say our team played a large role in this grand fit-out, executing a full £4.9 million project and contributing to sustainability with a 100% electric store fit-out. Our team’s expertise was crucial in creating an efficient, sustainable environment that aligns with M&S’s commitment to being a 100% electric store.
“This is our most prestigious challenge yet, and we’re proud to have the opportunity to be a part of something much bigger.” Jonathan Potter, Director of Smart Tec Solutions Limited.
With over 230 new jobs created, this store is part of M&S’s broader £480 million investment plan to enhance its retail offerings nationwide. Inside, shoppers will find dedicated areas for popular brands and the latest summer collections, along with new features to streamline the shopping experience.
The new café, spanning 4,100 sq ft with 158 covers, includes the innovative Renewal Café.
Conveniently located with ample parking and external car park access, the M&S Leeds White Rose store is open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 21:00, Saturday 08:00 to 20:00, and Sunday 11:00 to 17:00.
