British-Favorite Marks & Spencer Is Leaving The Philippines This May

You might have a routine of picking up a box of shortbread or a new pack of cotton vests during your weekend mall run. That habit is about to change because the long-standing British retailer Marks & Spencer is officially closing its doors across the Philippines.

The SSI Group, which has managed the brand locally for nearly forty years, announced that all operations will wind down very soon. If you have been loyal to their food hall or clothing sections, you only have a few months left to visit.

Why Marks & Spencer physical stores are closing

^{Image credit: Marks & Spencer SM North Edsa Facebook}

The decision comes from the Tantoco-led SSI Group, the same firm that handles luxury names like Cartier and Hermes. They recently shared that the retail environment is shifting, making it necessary to stop operating the British brand.

While the brand has been a staple in Filipino malls for decades, the company reported that this was a difficult but essential move. This follows a period where the demand for certain retail goods has fluctuated, leading the management to refocus their business strategy.

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Important dates for Marks & Spencer shoppers

^{Image credit: Marks & Spencer SM North Edsa Facebook}

You do not need to rush to the mall this afternoon, but you should definitely start planning your final shopping trips. The company has set a very specific timeline for the closure, confirming that all Marks & Spencer stores will remain fully operational until May 2, 2026. This specific date marks the final day you can shop for their signature biscuits, wines, and clothing lines before the shutters go down for good. Once that deadline passes, the subsidiary Stores Specialists Inc. will begin the final process of closing all branches across the country.

For many Filipinos, Marks & Spencer was the go-to spot for high-quality basics and imported snacks that were hard to find elsewhere. Those digestive cookies they sell have already been a part of Filipino holidays as it’s the most popular gift to give to colleagues, friends, or family relatives. Since the brand has been here for almost 40 years, it has become a reliable part of the local shopping culture.

With only a few months left, it is a good time to check your wardrobe for any essentials you usually buy there. You might also want to stock up on your favorite tea or pantry items before they disappear from the shelves for good.

The exit of Marks & Spencer marks the end of an era for British retail in the Philippines. While it is sad to see a familiar brand leave our malls, being aware of the May deadline helps you make the most of the remaining stock. Keep an eye on your local branch for any closing sales or updates as the final date approaches.

^{Featured image credit: Marks & Spencer SM North Edsa Facebook}