M&S announces food hall expansion

Retail giant Marks and Spencer (M&S) has announced plans to expand one of its food halls amid confirmed store closures across the country.

The size of its branch in St Michael's Retail Park in Ripon is set to increase by 40% to 12,300 sq ft (1,420 sq m), according to the company.

The changes will mean a larger in-store bakery and fresh produce selection and a bigger flower and enhanced wine shop offering.

It comes after M&S stores in Bradford and Barnsley closed in response to a change in shopping habits.

The retailer has previously said it wanted fewer but better main stores, as shoppers spend more online, as well as to expand its food business.

Over the last financial year, M&S said it had invested more than £20m in its stores across Yorkshire, which includes plans for a new food hall in Selby.

The extension in Ripon is set to be completed by spring 2025 and will see the company take over an adjacent unit.

Store manager Richard Johnston said the expansion would enable a larger product offering such as more seasonal fruit and vegetables as well as a brand-new cheese barge.

"Work is already under way on site but we are open as usual right up until next spring," he said.

"We’ll make sure to keep customers updated as work progresses.”

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