Marks and Sparks just keeps on going (Marks and Spencers in general)

Member Name: Dinah93

Product:	Marks and Spencers in general
Date:	22/12/08 (33 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: High quality, fab food

Disadvantages: can be expensive, fluctuating image

M & S is a large store, part of the well known national chain. The Newcastle branch is spread over two levels. The ground floor is smaller, with menswear at the front, gifts towards the middle, and a large food hall at the back. The food hall has recently been modernised, and stocks a wide range of yummy meals as well as a bakery doing fresh goods. There are escalators, stairs and lifts to the first floor, which is larger. This is almost entirely womenswear, with a large Per Una range, and a smaller signature collection. There is also the large undies section and the bra fitting ladies who I am assured are very friendly and professional! At the back is a small financial services and customer services section, as well as a modern café that does hot food, sandwiches and lots of fresh meals and fruit salads. A lot of the food here is now cooked from scratch, and it is very tasty.

M & S has significantly rebranded in recent years to appeal to a younger market. They have done this very cleverly, and still retain ranges to appeal to their core clientele of the blue rinse brigade buying sensible shoes and cotton knickers. There is now the middle class middle aged 'trendy' range of Per Una, the well cut and quite stylish 'Signiture' range, and some quality homewares.

M & S food is exceptional quality, well made, natural and very tasty, and is unparrelled amongst other supermarkets. Christmas wouldn't be Christmas for me without a box of their chocolate brandy snaps! Recently they have started a 2 dine for £10 promotion, which is 2 main courses, a side dish, dessert for 2 and a bottle of wine, and is a great alternative to an expensive meal out.

Summary: High quality produce and reasonable prices - especially in the sale!