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SWARMS of shoppers descended on Seef Mall for the reopening of Marks & Spencer’s much-anticipated refurbished store, forcing management to open it an hour earlier than planned.
The 21,000sq/ft outlet has been converted to coincide with Marks & Spencer’s new ‘concept store’ drive and the brand, one of the UK’s favourite shopping destinations, unveiled a range of new interiors and the latest autumn clothing collections.
The traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by managing director at Marks & Spencer Al-Futtaim, John Cooper, and store manager, Muneera Ebrahim.
A contemporary design, trendy windows, extensive product display, clear signage and fashionable colours are the key features that they say has turned this M&S store into an international shopping ‘experience’.
Mr Cooper said: “At Marks & Spencer, we invest in the quality and style of our products and have reinvigorated the look and feel of the store.
“We hope that these changes help us deliver exactly what our customers want and expect from M&S – high quality, quality fashion, innovation and world-class customer service.
“Showcasing a new, directional signature style, Marks & Spencer, presents elegant, accessible pieces with flattering silhouettes in varied prints and designs at affordable price-points.
“From elegant, retro-inspired glamour to softly androgynous, minimal tailoring, the new range brings a fresh feel to autumn dressing. With a wide range of offerings, Marks & Spencer aims to be the lifestyle complement choice of the Middle East.”
The new store has defined brand areas aimed at reflecting the uniqueness of the company’s different sub-brands, so customers can quickly identify what best suits their style and taste.
Designers say the overarching mood of the women’s-wear range for the new season is one of confident femininity, celebrating the female form in flattering fit and design, bringing several strong trend directions into play.
From elegant prints and pattern to embellishment and luxe leather, the wide collection aims to celebrate this season’s key trends for all occasions. This is the season to embrace texture and experiment with a more decorative approach to fabrication, according to fashion experts.
The store’s clothing collection also features a host of product innovations, for example suits that are fully machine washable and Secret Support lingerie which gives women a more flattering silhouette.
In addition, apart from the wide range of clothing catering to men, women and kids, M&S also offers accessories and footwear, as well as a complete range of beauty products.
Designed with customers in mind, the company says the makeover has made the store more inviting, inspiring and convenient to shop in with fantastic beauty and clothing displays. The new retail format also responds to the demands of a sector of young people who are interested in, and highly aware of, new trends.
* Fashion writer Camille Jones’ verdict on Fashion Weekly
