In a bid to support consumers amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, Marks & Spencer (M&S) has introduced substantial final markdowns across its UK stores, offering discounts of up to 90% on clothing, footwear, and accessories.
Shoppers nationwide have eagerly taken advantage of these reductions, sharing their bargain finds on social media platforms.
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Customers have reported remarkable deals, including boots and jeans priced as low as £3.99 and children’s clothing items for just £2.99. For instance, Michaela Conley from Glasgow purchased beige biker boots for £6, noting the availability of various ankle boot styles at the same price.
M&S slashes prices on everyday items
Similarly, Julia Beatriz Di Pace secured newborn knitted sets for £2.99 and women’s grey checkered wide-leg trousers reduced from £35 to £4.49. In Northamptonshire, Nina Bowes acquired “bargain cords” for £3.99, down from £29.50, and plans to tailor them herself.
At the Kingston Park store in Newcastle, Jade Rogerson found children’s boots for £2.99 and wellies for £3.49, with additional adult clothing items starting from £1.99.
This aggressive discounting aligns with M&S’s broader strategy to maintain affordability without sacrificing quality. The retailer has been proactive in addressing economic challenges by implementing various initiatives.
In April 2022, M&S reduced prices on its “Remarksable” range, which includes everyday essentials like milk, bread, and pasta, to offer better value to customers.
Additionally, in October 2022, M&S expanded its partnership with the rental platform Hirestreet, allowing customers to rent capsule wardrobes as a cost-effective and sustainable fashion alternative.
M&S announces pay rise for retail workers
Despite facing financial pressures, including an anticipated £60 million increase in costs due to higher employer national insurance contributions and a 6.7% rise in the minimum wage to £12.21 an hour, M&S remains committed to supporting both its customers and employees.
The company has announced a 5% pay increase for its 50,000 retail workers starting April 1, raising the hourly wage to at least £12.60, with London-based staff earning £13.85 an hour.
M&S CEO Stuart Machin emphasized efforts to absorb these additional expenses through cost-saving measures rather than passing them on to consumers.
These initiatives underscore M&S’s dedication to providing value and quality to its customers during challenging economic times, reinforcing its position as a retailer attuned to the needs of cost-conscious shoppers.
