M&S to sell newspapers in UK outlets

Marks & Spencer is to put itself in direct competition with retailers such as WH Smith, by stocking magazines and newspapers.

The retailer is extending a trial, which began in two M&S Simply Food stores in July, to encompass M&S branded stores. By the end of the month, ten stores will be stocking daily newspapers and selected magazines in their To Go sections.

A spokeswoman says the trial would last several months and that if a success, the initiative will be launched in more stores. She says: “It’s hoped that people will see the To Go sections as a complete package where they can pick up a newspaper along with their sandwich.”

Stores stocking newspapers and magazines include Aberdeen, Croydon, London’s Edgware Road and Oxford Street, Glasgow and Slough. There is no advertising of the concept planned for the trial period.

M&S also recently announced that it was increasing the number of its discount stores to ten, with the addition of four shops in Swindon, North Shields, Manchester and Street, Somerset.