Marks & Spencer will double frozen-food offerings for Czech Republic upon reopening

Marks & Spencer is gearing up for a significant change in their food offerings in the Czech market. They’re doubling their list of items and replacing their refrigerated produce with an extended frozen assortment, seeking to meet increased demand for frozen goods in the wake of the departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union. 

"After the reopening of stores, we will be able to confidently offer the level of services that customers expect from us and expand into the fast-growing area of ​​the food market," he added.

Delays in fresh food supply led to Marks & Spencer closing its Czech stores on Jan. 15. 

According to Marks & Spencer, the chosen solution is to guarantee "a high standard offering for customers," and thus ensure the maintenance of supplies of clothing, household goods and food to all stores and online sales in the Czech Republic.

Originally more geared towards fashion, Marks & Spencer has been expanding the offerings their brand gives their customers. Within their current plan they seek to double the number of frozen assortment items, and add kitchen utensils and home accessories. Clothes & fashion still make up about 70 percent of the company’s turnover. 

The British company is celebrating its 25th anniversary on the Czech market this year. In addition to this, the chain is refurbishing its food retail areas. The first newly renovated store will be opened this July in OC Nový Smíchov. 

Currently all stores are closed due to government measures regarding the coronavirus pandemic, but they maintain an e-shop with a pickup service, launched in January of this year, along with clothes sales on Mall.cz and grocery sales on Rohlik.cz.

Marks & Spencer has a 18 stores in the Czech Republic including on Wenceslas Square, as well as in shopping centers such as Palladium and Westfield. The retailer left the Slovak market, where it had seven stores, at the end of 2016.