Marks & Spencer to cease PH ops on May 2 — SSI

Tantoco-led specialty and luxury retailer Stores Specialists Inc. (SSI) on Wednesday confirmed it is shutting down its operations of British clothing, furniture, and foods brand Marks & Spencer.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, SSI said that it “will cease operations of Marks & Spencer in the Philippines, with the final day of store operations set for May 2, 2026.”

The first Marks & Spencer store was opened in the Philippines almost 40 years ago “and since then, under SSI’s stewardship, the brand has been an important part of the Philippine retail story," SSI said.

Shutting down the British fashion and food brand “has not been an easy decision," it added.

“Building Marks & Spencer in the Philippines has been a meaningful and rewarding chapter for our organization. We are deeply grateful to our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and partners who have supported the brand through the decades,” it said.

SSI said it will work closely with employees, partners, and stakeholders to ensure a responsible and respectful transition as operations wind down. 

“Further details regarding timelines, promotions, and customer advisories leading up to May 2, 2026 will be communicated in due course,” it said.

Marks & Spencers has 13 operational branches nationwide, with its flagship store located at Central Square in Bonifacio Global City.

Apart from Marks & Spencer, SSI also carries other luxury brands including Hermes, Cartier, Salvatore Ferragamo, Zara, and Alo, to name a few. — with reports from Hermes Joy Tunac/LA, GMA Integrated News