M&S expansion plans could bring new Portsmouth store with Stephen Morgan MP expressing "strong support"
Five hundred areas have made the ‘potential locations list’ for new M&S sites as the retailer “reshapes for growth”, with the city being considered.
Marks & Spencer is currently going through a period of expansion as the popular brand aims to double the size of its food business across the UK.
As a result, the company is currently assessing hundreds of areas where new stores could open - and Portsmouth has made the list.
Alex Freudmann managing director of M&S Food said:“The strong performance of our new M&S food stores gives us the confidence to explore even more locations across the UK, from Elgin to Exmouth.
“Our team want new sites where we could open a large M&S Food store as we deliver on our strategy to bring the right stores to the right places and offer the best shopping experience, range and availability for our customers.”
Supporting the potential investment in the city is Stephen Morgan MP for Portsmouth South who has written to the retailer.
He wrote: “As the Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South, I am writing regarding the exciting announcement of M&S’s plans to expand its Food Store portfolio across the UK.
“I was delighted to see Portsmouth included in your latest list of preferred locations, and I want to express my strong support for bringing a new M&S Food Store to the south of the city, alongside and complementing, our well-recognised local and independent small businesses.
“While the closure of several key retailers in recent years has created gaps in our local retail landscape, it has also created opportunities for brands to contribute to the drive for revitalisation and renewal of our high streets.”
Between November 2025 and March 2026, 20 new or renewed M&S stores are opening, creating 800 jobs.
In an updated brochure of requirements, M&S has outlined that new sites will need to be 21,500 + sqft, in a highly visible location with easy access to major roads and it will need to have dedicated parking.
The list of potential Hampshire sites include Portsmouth, Waterlooville, Bishops Waltham, Locks Heath/Fareham, Chandler’s Ford, Basingstoke, Fleet, Hook and Petersfield.
As well as boosting the local economy, the new M&S would make a “significant contribution” to the city and would “provide residents with the services they want and need”, Stephen Morgan added.
More updates to follow.