On your Marks...

Marks & Spencer is celebrating 125 years. In that time, the company has grown remarkably from market stall to penny bazaar to international retailer and national treasure. It’s amazing to think that at least four generations of every family in Britain have probably relied on Marks & Sparks, or M&S, for quality clothes and foods. Its wares have become woven into the fabric of national life.

The company was founded in 1884 by Michael Marks, an immigrant from Minsk (now in Belarus) as a single market stall in Leeds. When Thomas Spencer joined the company 10 years later, it was known as 'Marks and Spencer'. The site of the first stall is marked with a green and gold commemorative clock in Leeds Kirkgate Market and, intriguingly, one of the original Penny Bazaars - a stall in Grainger Market, Newcastle upon Tyne - remains open to this day, and is now the smallest M&S store in operation.

The spirit of Whiteleys - a Grade II listed building, named after the enterprising 19th-century retailer William Whiteleys – is to hold tradition and trading innovation in  tremendous respect. Which is why Marks & Spencer  is a valued anchor tenant here. As a society, we value all the company represents – from the quality clothes we wear and the food we eat, to the high moral and ethical standards we expect from businesses and employers today.

Marks & Spencer Whiteleys has an extensive food hall with fresh fruit, vegetables and readymade meals as well as top-quality household goods. Look out for the popular Dine In promotions, Wise Buys and latest offers. Displayed beyond the food aisles is all latest high quality and fashionable women’s clothing in a wide range of sizes. Whether you’re after work clothes or some new clothes and accessories for the summer, we’ve got it all here!