Marks and Spencer at Stanney Woods Avenue is the largest Marks and Spencer location outside of London, a short drive (under a mile away) from Cheshire Oaks Retail Park. Opened in August 2012 and being just under 10 years old, it still feels like one of the newest Marks and Spencer stores.
From the outside, the store looks really good, the design is unique and impressive and the store does look huge. I like the 300 square meter green wall and the greenery, which really does make the store stand out.
As you'd expect from an out of town superstore with limited public transportation access, there is plenty of parking right outside the store.
The store is over two levels, there is Women's Fashion and the Food Hall on the ground level, while upstairs you have the Cafe and Men's Fashion. Lavatories are available on both floors.
One of my biggest hates about this store is the wasted potential - from the outside, there is a sign stating their eco-credentials, but they could be doing so much more. For example, why hasn't this store been selected to trial and use the Fill Your Own initiative? This offers to be able to pick your own eggs and use a reusable box, while also grinding your own coffee beans, selecting your own carbs (pasta and rice), and eliminating the need for packaging. I understand this is in place at their Manchester Market Street store, and others, but it just feels strange it wouldn't be in place at this one.
This store does offer Marks and Spencer's mobile scanning and payment system, they are advertising this in the store. You are also able to use a handheld scanner if you do not have a mobile device, however, the stand didn't have any devices - perhaps an issue with technology as the store did not seem very busy?
I wasn't able to find the items I was looking for in both the clothing and food sections, I did find the gluten-free section to be a little poor here, especially for the size of the store. The selection was good, however.
4* - This store is nice and has so much potential, I would certainly visit this particular Marks and Spencer branch again if I'm in the area. read more