The retailer says it's making the changes due to a "difficult economic backdrop" amid the rising cost of living crisis.
The closures are actually part of previously-announced plans to axe 110 main stores as part of a big overhaul.
Marks & Spencer has announced it is to speed up its store closure plans, which will see 25% of its bigger stores shut down across the UK, reports The Manc.
In the face of what the retailer has called a "difficult economic backdrop" amid the rising cost of living crisis, M&S has said its turnaround plans mean that one in four of its bigger stores selling clothing and homeware are to close their doors, while 104 new Simply Food outlets are to open.
But the retailer says it's now aiming make these changes faster than originally planned.
Although there has been no word yet as to what store may be subject to closure, M&S said in a statement released this week that it would be looking to get rid of “lower productivity” outlets - which would result in the closure of 67 larger outlets.
M&S announces plans to close 25% of its bigger stores across the UK / Credit: M&S
In the locations where stores are closing down, M&S assured that this does not necessarily mean the retailer would be leaving a town completely, but could include the closure of an older high street store in a town or city centre, and the opening of a new outlet at an out-of-town retail park.
In order to shift and focus on grocery retail, M&S says it's also looking at reducing its floor space at stores that sell clothing and homeware by almost a fifth.
Stuart Machin, Chief Executive at M&S, said the retailer was "creating a fit for the future store estate, with shops in great locations", adding that: "We’re seeing strong performances from our recently relocated stores and this gives us the confidence to go faster in our rotation plans, whilst at the same time investing in bigger and better food stores."
The retailer also said it was making these changes at a time when consumer habits are changing, and online purchases are rising to account for 50% of its sales.
M&S says it wants to achieve these changes over the next five years, but is ideally aiming for the closures to have taken place within three.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."
The Hoot -
13th October 2022 
