Marks and Spencer closing Leeds Foodhall store March 22

Marks and Spencer is closing a popular Foodhall store in Leeds, where the company was founded in 1884. The store will close on Saturday, March 22. Many local shoppers are unhappy about the decision and have expressed their concerns on social media, urging the retail giant to reconsider. The Wellington Street location is close to the Leeds train station and has been a favorite for residents and visitors. Locals have pointed out that the area has seen new residential development, bringing more shoppers to the store. Some customers have lamented the loss of this convenient stop for groceries and clothing. An M&S spokesperson confirmed the closure is part of the company’s plan to modernize its store portfolio. They aim to focus on locations with better foot traffic and to open new stores in more popular areas. While a nearby M&S outlet on Ludgate Hill will remain open, many customers say it will not be an easy replacement. This closure is not unique. Over the past year, Marks and Spencer has shut several other stores across the UK, citing changing shopping habits. The company has been restructuring since 2016, with plans to close underperforming locations and focus on larger Foodhall venues. M&S is currently opening new stores in major cities and aims to launch over 100 larger Foodhall outlets by 2028. The shift reflects the retailer's strategy to adapt to the evolving retail landscape, moving away from less busy high-street locations.