Marks & Spencer has announced it is expanding its global reach, partnering exclusively with David Jones, Australia's premium department store, to bring the magic of M&S Fashion to customers "down under".
The ambition for M&S International is to build a global omnichannel business, utilising the expertise and infrastructure of strategic franchise partners in established markets, working with leading marketplaces to drive online growth and securing new opportunities in wholesale.
The partnership with David Jones marked M&S’ first-ever international wholesale partnership in its Fashion business as it continues to drive style and lead the UK market in quality and value perceptions.
This followed the success of a wholesale partnership with Target, which saw Percy Pig take the US by storm earlier this year, selling out within one week. The new partnership will offer highlights from M&S' Women's Wear, Men's Wear and Lingerie ranges both online and in 24 David Jones stores across Australia, including the flagship stores in Sydney and Melbourne.
"We’re thrilled to welcome Marks & Spencer to David Jones, introducing one of Britain’s most iconic retailers to our customers. The arrival of M&S marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for us, as we continue to curate a world-class portfolio of brands that deliver both elevated everyday essentials and exceptional value," said Bridget Veals, Executive General Manager of Women's Wear at David Jones.
"We’re proud to be the exclusive home of Marks & Spencer Fashion in Australia and look forward to building a strong and enduring connection between this global brand and our customers.”
The partnership was born out of a shared set of values centred on quality, innovation, and trust. Serving over five million customers in Australia each year, spanning from Perth to the Gold Coast, the partnership will support M&S as it continues to expand its global reach through strategic partnerships in key markets.
Brand awareness of M&S has now reached over half of the Australian population, and this venture marks the exclusive launch of its world-renowned apparel in stores for the first time.
“Last year, we reset our priorities for international, with a focus on offering the magic of M&S to customers across the world. With consistent growth in Food and Fashion, Home & Beauty, and strong brand momentum as the UK’s most trusted retailer, there is now so much opportunity for us to grow our business globally," said Mark Lemming, Managing Director of International at M&S.
"We’re taking our first steps in Australia; it’s a market which has always shared long-standing and strong links with the UK and where brand recognition is high. With a shared set of values surrounding quality, innovation and trust, David Jones is the perfect partner as we take our first venture into a partnership in fashion.”
Last year, M&S reset priorities for its international business to provide stronger foundations for long-term growth. In February, M&S strengthened its global leadership team with three senior appointments, including a new International Partnerships Director, a Commercial Director, and a Managing Director for M&S India.
Building a new leadership team with global experience has been a crucial element of the reset and future growth plan.
