Mark and Spencer (M&S) is a British multinational retailer with a strong reputation for quality and sustainability. One of how M&S has distinguished itself is through its commitment to supporting British manufacturing and small businesses. This article will examine how M&S supports these industries and the benefits it brings to the company, its customers, and the wider community.
Support for British Manufacturing
M&S has long been committed to sourcing products from British manufacturers. The company’s “Plan A” sustainability strategy, launched in 2007, set a target for 60% of the company’s clothing and home products to be sourced from the UK by 2020. This target was met and exceeded, with over 70% of these products now being sourced from British manufacturers.
M&S has also been a vocal advocate for the benefits of British manufacturing. The company argues that sourcing products from the UK helps to support local communities and reduces the environmental impact of transportation. Additionally, M&S believes that working closely with British manufacturers allows the company to maintain high quality and sustainability standards.
Support for Small Businesses
In addition to supporting British manufacturing, M&S also works to support small businesses. The company has a dedicated program, “Supplier Development,” which provides training and support to small businesses that want to supply products to M&S. This program helps small businesses to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful suppliers and also provides them with access to M&S’s extensive network of contacts and resources.
M&S also actively seeks out small businesses to supply products. For example, the company’s “Best of British” range features products from small and medium-sized businesses across the UK. By working with these businesses, M&S can offer customers a wide range of unique, high-quality products.
Benefits of Supporting British Manufacturing and Small Businesses
There are many benefits to M&S’s commitment to supporting British manufacturing and small businesses. For the company, these include increased brand loyalty, improved sustainability, and the ability to offer unique and high-quality products.
For customers, the benefits include access to high-quality and sustainable products made in the UK. Additionally, by supporting small businesses, M&S is helping to promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
For the wider community, the benefits include the creation of jobs and the support of local economies. Additionally, by sourcing products from the UK, M&S is reducing the environmental impact of transportation.
Conclusion
Mark and Spencer’s commitment to supporting British manufacturing and small businesses is essential to the company’s overall sustainability strategy. By working with these industries, M&S can offer customers high-quality and sustainable products while supporting local communities and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. Overall, M&S’s support for these industries is a win-win for the company, its customers, and the wider community.
I had a bra fitting appt on 9th June at my local Derbion Branch with Lisa. She was very professional and helpful. She is a credit to your Shop Thank U Lisa
Brilliant service
Louise at Culverhouse Cross at the bra fitting was the epitome of M&S Excellence! The service was absolutely outstanding. My daughter and I felt comfortable and we both received tailored professional and friendly service. I have used this service before however this was on a whole new level.