Store closures and deep discounts across the Philippines have seen Marks & Spencer’s long-time franchise partner start downsizing several stores, raising questions about the future of Marks & Spencer’s local operations.
M&S has operated in the country for more than 30 years through Rustan’s Group of Companies, which was acquired by SSI Group last year.
In recent months, franchisees have closed stores in TriNoma, Robinsons Manila, Marquee Mall, Ayala Center Cebu, and there are also reports of closures in SM Mall of Asia.
Remaining stores are offering discounts of up to 60% and buy-one-get-one promotions as they clear inventory. In particular, Rockwell and Greenbelt have a limited range of food items for sale, with empty freezers and wide shelves stacked with identical items.
M&S Philippines’ website now lists 13 stores nationwide, including Davao and Laguna, up from more than 20 stores at its peak.
The closures and deep discounts have fueled speculation among customers and industry insiders that the retailer is preparing to exit the country.
Customers have expressed disappointment online, particularly at the potential loss of the extended size range, which is not widely available domestically.
one user wrote: reddit: “It was my mother’s favorite brand. She’s heavy, so they come in a larger size. But they’re expensive, so I only buy them when they’re on sale.”
The development comes as Marks & Spencer continues to “reset” its international business.
In the UK, the company also outlined plans to reduce the number of full-line stores from 229 to 180, with “closures, relocation to grocery stores, and relocation to another full-line store.”
“We are focused on bigger and better partnerships that allow us to bring the best of M&S to the world,” said Mark Lemming, MD of international markets at M&S.
“As we continue to advance our strategy, I remain confident in the medium to long-term opportunity for M&S to drive global growth.”
It remains unclear whether the closure in the Philippines reflects a decision by the franchise partner, the parent company, or both. SSI has not publicly commented on the situation.