Marks & Spencer announces reopening of PH stores with new franchise agreement
Marks & Spencer is returning to the Philippines with a new franchise partner before 2026 ends.
BusinessWorld reported that the British brand has formed an agreement with Indonesian retail group PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk (MAP), which is also operating over 150 global brands—from Subway and Starbucks to M&S, Zara, Sephora, and Foot Locker, among others.
In a statement, M&S announced that MAP is set to oversee all its operations as it reopens its PH stores starting at Glorietta later this year, offering M&S Fashion, Home & Beauty, and Food options.
MAP has been M&S' partner in other countries like Indonesia and Vietnam for more than 26 years.
M&S International Managing Director Mark Lemming expressed his excitement over the new franchise deal.
“We are delighted to expand our partnership with MAP into the Philippines," he said. "We know there is strong demand for the M&S brand in the Philippines, and we’re excited to reopen our stores and online channels later this year."
MAP Fashion Chief Executive Officer Sameer Prasad, who described the Philippines as a “fast-growing market,” said the partnership "marks an important milestone for MAP Fashion and reflects our commitment to growing iconic global brands across Southeast Asia."
M&S closed its PH stores on May 2 following the conclusion of its partnership with SSI Group Inc.
SSI Group announced on Feb. 25 the ceasing of M&S' operations in the country along with the end of their years-long deal with the retailer.
"This has not been an easy decision. Building Marks & Spencer in the Philippines has been a meaningful and rewarding chapter for our organization. We are deeply grateful to our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and partners who have supported the brand through the decades," the management said in a statement.
Days later, a spokesperson from the British brand clarified that it would be staying in the country, just with a different franchise partner.
"Our objective is to build a trusted global brand by bringing the best of M&S to customers around the world. We remain committed to the Philippines and the growth opportunity in the region," they said in a statement sent to PhilSTAR L!fe.
