preview

Case Study Of M & S

Decent Essays

Executive Summary
M&S was established in 1884 in UK and started operations as a ‘penny shop’ market stall in Leeds. Ever since then M&S has seen progressive growth and is has expanded to become one of the leading retailers in UK. Its product offerings range from clothing, home, food and general merchandise. Previously M&S claimed a sizeable market share of the high street fashion industry with its brand positioned at providing high quality products as a premium price. However over the years, the brand has lost market share to other more affordable and fashionable brands such as Next and Zara. On the other hand, in the recent decade, M&S has experienced remarkable success in its food department, namely Simply Food. Overall the brand has been …show more content…

The key issues faced by M&S includes the undefined of core customer base which has led to a M&S launching multiple product lines which did not fit in with customer needs. Furthermore, the brand has failed to fulfil its promise, both in terms of product availability as well as its value-for-money proposition. Thirdly, the shortfalls in marketing mix, such as product features, pricing and placement has caused customers to shop with competitors. Lastly, the disintegration of marketing communication via traditional and digital channels has delivered a varying message to the customers, causing a further decline in sales and profitability. However in the recent years M&S has taken various steps to integrate its traditional and digital marketing tactics to gain a steadier follow of profit and to retain its market share of both online and in-store customers.
Market Analysis of M&S
Over the years M&S has expanded its product portfolio and entered into the food industry. Currently M&S has a diverse product line with varying levels of success in the various elements of the portfolio. In recent years, as the food business for Marks and Spencer has grown steady, making it a star product in the portfolio, the clothing line has experience a downturn in sales and profits. Clothing and general merchandise is considered a rocky boat with falling sales and profit margins. The fall in demand for clothing line has been largely attributed to the marketing side weaknesses of M&S.
M&S Marketing

Get Access