Marks & Spencer has confirmed plans to open a new Foodhall in Wembley Park, North London, with the store expected to launch next summer. The 14,300 sq ft outlet will create more than 60 jobs, according to the retailer.
Store details and features
The new store will feature market-style fresh produce sourced from select farm partners, an in-store bakery, and dedicated flower and wine shops. It will be situated in the heart of Wembley Park, an area that attracts over 17 million visitors annually, including those heading to Wembley Stadium.
This opening is part of M&S's wider expansion across the capital. The chain has already opened four stores in London this year, including Tooting Broadway in May and Tottenham Court Road in June, and this month unveiled its transformed Pantheon flagship store on Oxford Street.
Further openings and job creation
Additional new food stores at Bell Green Retail Park in Sydenham and at The Elephant Development in Elephant and Castle are scheduled to open later this year. Together, these four openings are expected to generate over 150 jobs for Londoners.
Last year, M&S released a list of over 500 potential locations of interest for future food stores, with more than 150 locations identified in the capital, including over 20 in North West London.
Reactions from key stakeholders
Colin Rimmer, Head of Acquisitions, London at M&S, said: “As we reinvest for growth across the capital, we are looking for locations where we can deliver the very best of M&S Food. We’re excited to be part of the area’s growing community and to bring more M&S Food to Londoners.”
Matt Slade, Retail Director at Quintain, added: “Working with Brent Council to secure M&S Food is a landmark moment for Wembley Park. The signing reflects the confidence major national brands have in the area’s long-term growth and the strength of a trading environment that combines a growing residential community with millions of visitors each year.”
Council and community impact
Cllr Matt Kelcher, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning at Brent Council, said: "The arrival of M&S Food is great news for local people and another sign of Wembley Park's transformation into a thriving neighbourhood. As more people choose to make Wembley their home, it's important that everyday amenities grow alongside the community."
He continued: "A new M&S Food store will give residents greater choice and convenience on their doorstep, all while creating good local jobs and showing that Brent remains open for business. We're pleased to see continued confidence from employers choosing to invest in Brent and look forward to welcoming M&S Food to Wembley Park next year."
