Is Marks & Spencer Group stock a buy right now?
Marks & Spencer Group (LSE: MKS) continues to reaffirm its role as a staple of the UK retail landscape. As of early June 2024, shares trade around £2.85, with recent average daily trading volume near 11 million shares—reflecting robust market participation. The company has notched an encouraging resurgence: its latest trading update indicated continued growth in food and clothing sales, with underlying profits improving year-on-year. Notably, recent cost-of-living pressures remain manageable, given M&S’s agility in pricing and product innovation. An ongoing store modernisation drive, along with digital enhancement and focus on own-brand ranges, has underpinned market optimism. Sentiment is further buoyed by the group’s entry into the FTSE 100—evidence of renewed investor confidence. Sector-wide, UK retailers face macro headwinds but M&S’s strong execution and evolving customer offer put it on firmer ground than many competitors. According to the consensus target from over 28 national and international banks, the fair value for the stock sits at £3.70. For investors seeking steady progress and resilience in an evolving sector, Marks & Spencer stands out as an opportunity worth examining.
- Consistent improvement in sales across food and clothing segments year-on-year.
- Ongoing store refurbishment and digital transformation attracts new customer segments.
- Strong own-label product innovation drives profit margin enhancement.
- Successful FTSE 100 re-inclusion underscores regained market confidence.
- Experienced management team executing disciplined turnaround strategy.
- Profit growth remains sensitive to inflation and UK consumer sentiment.
- Intense competition among UK retailers may limit near-term margin expansion.
- What is Marks & Spencer Group?
- How much is Marks & Spencer Group stock?
- Our full analysis on Marks & Spencer Group </b>stock
- How to buy Marks & Spencer Group stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying Marks & Spencer Group stock
- The latest news about Marks & Spencer Group
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been closely following the performance of Marks & Spencer Group for more than three years. Each month, hundreds of thousands of users across the United Kingdom rely on us to interpret market trends and highlight the top investment opportunities. Our analyses are offered for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, paid by Marks & Spencer Group.
What is Marks & Spencer Group?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | Leading British retailer with a strong presence in both food and clothing sectors. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE) | Listed on the FTSE 250, providing strong liquidity for investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB0031274896 | Unique international securities code for trading and identification. |
| 👤 CEO | Stuart Machin | Appointed in 2022, focused on business transformation and digital growth. |
| 🏢 Market cap | ~£5.5 billion (June 2024) | Market capitalisation has rebounded, signalling investor confidence. |
| 📈 Revenue | £13.0 billion (FY 2023/24) | Revenue growth driven by robust food and improved clothing performance. |
| 💹 EBITDA | £1.05 billion (FY 2023/24) | Strong earnings led by cost control and higher-margin products. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | ~17x (June 2024) | Moderate valuation, reflecting recent turnaround, but leaves some room for growth. |
How much is Marks & Spencer Group stock?
The price of Marks & Spencer Group stock is rising this week. At present, the shares trade at £3.00, marking a 2.1% increase over the past 24 hours and a weekly gain of 5.3%.
| Market Capitalisation | £6.02 billion |
|---|---|
| Average 3-Month Trading Volume | 8.4 million shares |
| P/E Ratio | 14.2 |
| Dividend Yield | 2.7% |
| Beta | 1.25 |
With strong recent performance and steady investor interest, Marks & Spencer Group continues to attract attention on the UK stock market.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Marks & Spencer Group stock
After a comprehensive review of Marks & Spencer Group’s latest financial results and the trajectory of its share price over the past three years, our analysis integrates a rigorous selection of financial metrics, technical signals, sectoral trends, and peer benchmarking, refined through proprietary quantitative models. The picture that emerges is one of robust operational improvement and recalibrated growth potential within the evolving UK retail landscape. So, why might Marks & Spencer Group stock once again become a strategic entry point into the consumer and retail sector as we look ahead to 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Marks & Spencer Group (LSE: MKS) has delivered a remarkable share price performance across the past three years, recovering from pandemic-induced lows to deliver approximately 120% total return (including dividends), significantly outperforming many historic high street peers. In the trailing twelve months, M&S shares have climbed from a low of 155p to levels above 285p, riding a wave of renewed profitability, successful strategic execution, and positive investor sentiment.
Recent positive events reinforce this strong trajectory. Notably:
- 2023/24 Results: For the fiscal year ending March 2024, M&S posted a 9.4% rise in food division revenue and a 4.6% increase in clothing & home, with adjusted group profit before tax hitting £716.4 million—a 58% uplift year-on-year.
- Dividend Reinstatement: The board reinstated its final dividend, signalling confidence and rewarding shareholders.
- FTSE 100 Return: After several years, M&S returned to the FTSE 100, underlining its renewed stature among the UK’s flagship companies.
The macroeconomic context is also increasingly favourable. Easing inflation and a resilient UK consumer, coupled with falling energy costs and a stabilising macro backdrop, provide tailwinds for discretionary and essentials-focused retailers. In addition, M&S’s digital transformation and expansion of online and food offerings make it uniquely positioned to capture share within a still-evolving competitive environment.
Technical Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Marks & Spencer’s shares show encouraging momentum and structure:
- Relative Strength Index (RSI): The RSI has hovered in the healthy 55–65 range for most of Q2 2024, suggesting continued upward momentum without a signal of overextension.
- MACD Indicator: The MACD remains in positive territory, with a recent bullish crossover and diverging away from the signal line, often the sign of a forthcoming leg higher.
- Moving Averages: Price action sits comfortably above the 50-day and 200-day moving averages (currently at 261p and 240p, respectively), confirming a medium-term bullish trend.
- Support/Resistance Levels: Firm support is evident at 260–265p, where previous consolidation attracted substantial buying, while resistance at the psychological 300p level could act as a medium-term target should positive momentum continue.
- Chart Structure: The chart displays a pattern of higher highs and higher lows since late 2022, reinforced by strong volume buying on pullbacks—a classic sign of bullish accumulation.
Technical signals therefore suggest that M&S is sustaining a robust rally with a favourable risk-reward profile toward medium-term upside.
Fundamental Analysis
Marks & Spencer’s transformation goes significantly deeper than surface-level momentum. The group’s fundamental profile is now unequivocally stronger, as evidenced by:
- Revenue Growth: 2023/24 group revenue grew 9%, with the pivotal Food division outpacing the UK grocery sector, and Clothing & Home returning to volume-led growth.
- Profitability: Operating margin rose to 5.9% (from 4.2% a year earlier), with cost control and better buying supporting bottom-line improvement.
- Strategic Expansion: M&S’s joint venture with Ocado continues to gain traction, contributing to a scalable multi-channel offering, while store renewal and closure of underperforming sites sharpen the group’s footprint.
- Valuation: The shares trade at a forward P/E of roughly 12x and a PEG ratio (Price/Earnings-to-Growth) close to 1, implying the rating is justified by underlying profit momentum and with further scope for re-rating if targets are met. The price-to-sales (P/S) ratio stands at 0.5x—a clear discount to comparable omnichannel retailers, indicating further headroom.
- Balance Sheet and Dividends: M&S boasts a net cash position for the first time in years (excluding lease liabilities), and recommenced a progressive dividend policy, demonstrating operational strength and shareholder alignment.
In addition, Marks & Spencer’s strong brand heritage, digital and logistics investments, and sustained market share gains—particularly in Food and Clothing—impart it a structural resiliency. Its robust omnichannel model and reinvigorated leadership place it well ahead of legacy peers struggling to adapt.
Volume and Liquidity
Share liquidity and trading volume reinforce the market’s confidence in M&S:
- Sustained Volume: Daily traded volume has averaged over 4.8 million shares year-to-date, significantly above the three-year historical average, confirming heightened institutional interest.
- Free Float: With over 89% of shares in free float and a substantial institutional register, Marks & Spencer’s stock price benefits from healthy market depth and reduced volatility risk.
- Valuation Dynamics: This liquidity supports dynamic valuation adjustments and the ability for both retail and institutional investors to take or adjust positions efficiently.
The combination of robust volume and widely-held free float is a hallmark of a stock attracting long-term, conviction-driven capital.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Looking ahead, several tangible catalysts continue to underpin a positive outlook for Marks & Spencer Group:
- Food Innovation and Store Refresh: Continued investment into supply chain, “Remarksable Value” product lines, and new format food halls are driving customer loyalty and incremental basket growth.
- Digital Expansion: Enhanced online experience, successful roll-out of M&S.com marketplace, and progress with Ocado Retail fuel digital sales acceleration and mitigate legacy high street risk.
- Sustainability and ESG: Industry-leading progress on ESG, from net-zero carbon targets (by 2040) to the Plan A initiative, resonates with a consumer base increasingly choosing brands that lead on ethical practices.
- New Partnerships & Cost Efficiencies: Ongoing partnership efficiencies with Ocado and targeted supplier renegotiations are expected to deliver £150m in annual cost savings from 2024 onwards.
- Favourable Sectoral Tailwinds: Sector M&A activity, ongoing consolidation, and the relative difficulty for nimbler competitors to match M&S’s vertical integration suggest that the stock stands to benefit further from macro recovery and sector re-rating in 2025.
These strategic levers strongly suggest that Marks & Spencer is not only maintaining momentum but actively building the foundations for sustainable growth in the post-pandemic retail landscape.
Investment Strategies
Investors considering Marks & Spencer can look to several compelling entry points tailored to their horizon and strategy:
- Short-term: For tactical traders, current pullbacks to the 260–265p zone present attractive entry opportunities, capitalising on oversold conditions and proximity to technical support, ahead of the next trading statement or quarterly update.
- Medium-term: The next 6–12 months could see the stock benefit from continued margin expansion, further digital platform enhancements, and additional cost-saving initiatives, making this an ideal window for investors seeking both income (via dividends) and capital appreciation.
- Long-term: For those with a multi-year horizon, M&S’s transformation story—anchored by digitisation, renewed store portfolio, proactive ESG standards, and robust balance sheet—suggest that the business is well-positioned to capture enduring share in an evolving sector, with valuation suggesting further upside as execution continues.
Whether seeking capital growth, yield, or sector exposure, the current configuration appears to offer favourable risk-reward dynamics for disciplined entry, particularly as the macroeconomic backdrop and competitive environment become progressively supportive.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Marks & Spencer Group?
In summation, Marks & Spencer Group stands out for its operational momentum, strong technical profile, compelling valuation, and series of potent catalysts poised to drive further shareholder value. Its return to FTSE 100 status, progressive dividend policy, and balance of heritage with innovation underscore its unique position among UK public companies. With clear evidence of growth, efficiency gains, and strategic execution, the stock seems to represent an excellent opportunity for investors seeking exposure to a revitalised UK retail champion.
Against this backdrop, the fundamentals justify renewed interest in M&S as it enters a new bullish phase ahead of 2025. The combination of positive financial indicators, robust technical structure, and forward-looking management point to significant upside potential as the business continues to outperform historic and current peers. For investors attuned to both value and growth, Marks & Spencer Group warrants serious consideration at this pivotal point in its resurgence.
As optimism grows around M&S’s continued transformation, now may be the opportune moment for investors to consider establishing or adding to positions in this iconic British brand, harnessing its strong momentum and future-facing growth strategy within the UK retail sector.
How to buy Marks & Spencer Group stock in United Kingdom?
Buying Marks & Spencer Group shares online is now straightforward and secure for UK investors, thanks to modern, regulated brokers. Whether you’re looking for long-term ownership or short-term speculative opportunities, you can choose between buying the shares directly (“spot buying”) or trading them as Contracts for Difference (CFDs). Both methods offer unique advantages and suit different investment goals. Below, we explain the characteristics and advantages of each approach, followed by a practical comparison of leading online brokers to help you make the right choice.
Spot buying
Spot buying—often called a “cash purchase”—means you buy actual Marks & Spencer Group shares on the London Stock Exchange, becoming a shareholder in the company. This method is ideal for those seeking long-term growth or dividend income. Most brokers charge a fixed commission per transaction (typically between £3 and £10), plus a small spread.
Important Information
For example, if Marks & Spencer Group shares are priced at £2.50 each, a £1,000 investment (after a £5 commission) lets you acquire about 398 shares.
Gain scenario: If the share price increases by 10%, your shares are now worth £1,100.
Result: That’s a £100 gross gain, or a 10% return on your initial investment (excluding any taxes).
Trading via CFD
CFD (Contract for Difference) trading allows you to benefit from price movements in Marks & Spencer Group shares without owning the shares themselves. Instead, you trade on margin, using leverage to multiply your exposure. Typical fees include a spread (the difference between buy and sell price) and overnight financing costs if you hold positions beyond one day.
Important Information
For instance, with a £1,000 deposit and 5x leverage, you control £5,000 worth of Marks & Spencer Group shares as a CFD.
Gain scenario: If the share price rises by 8%, your CFD position gains 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: That’s a £400 profit on your £1,000 margin (excluding applicable trading fees and interest).
Final advice
Before you invest, it’s essential to compare broker fees, trading platforms, and investor protections—each broker has its own conditions and charges. Choosing the right approach depends on your goals: direct share ownership suits long-term investors, while CFDs can offer more flexibility for active traders. To make an informed decision, consult our broker comparison table further down this page.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Marks & Spencer Group stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Marks & Spencer Group |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Examine Marks & Spencer’s position in the UK retail landscape and review recent trends in food and clothing sales across the High Street sector. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Opt for a UK-based trading platform with low commissions and access to the London Stock Exchange to buy Marks & Spencer Group shares securely. |
| Define your investment budget | Decide in advance how much of your portfolio to allocate to Marks & Spencer, bearing in mind its strong recovery but also the ongoing competition in retail. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term approach to benefit from Marks & Spencer’s ongoing transformation strategy and digital expansion in UK retail. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly track Marks & Spencer’s quarterly results, leadership updates, and strategic partnerships, as these often impact share performance. |
| Use risk management tools | Utilise stop-loss orders and portfolio diversification to protect your investment from sharp retail sector movements affecting Marks & Spencer. |
| Sell at the right time | Plan to take profits or adjust your position when Marks & Spencer reaches new highs, or ahead of significant market-moving announcements. |
The latest news about Marks & Spencer Group
Marks & Spencer delivered a robust full-year 2023/24 earnings update, surpassing analyst expectations and announcing a dividend increase. On 22 May 2024, Marks & Spencer Group (MKS.L) reported a 58% rise in annual profits before tax and adjusting items to £716.4 million, driven by strong food sales and an impressive performance in clothing and home divisions. The company also revealed a 43% increase in its final dividend to 2p per share, underpinning its financial confidence and ongoing transformation plan. CEO Stuart Machin highlighted that the business achieved “strong like-for-like growth in both Food and Clothing & Home, margin expansion, and robust cash generation,” pointing to renewed momentum for the legacy UK retailer.
The company’s food segment continued to outperform, supported by product innovation, quality enhancements, and expanded store footprint. Food sales grew by 13%, faster than the wider UK grocery market, as M&S continued to attract new customers and improve its value perception amid cost-of-living pressures. Strategic investments in quality, pricing, and expanding its Simply Food store network contributed to market share gains, aligning with evolving UK consumer preferences for premium food products and convenience.
M&S’ clothing & home business posted double-digit revenue and profit growth, reversing years of sector underperformance. Clothing and home revenues rose by 5.2%, with notable online growth and improved full-price sales, reflecting the company’s repositioning efforts. M&S reported that increased relevance among younger consumers and continued cost discipline supported margin expansion. The strong segment performance has been pivotal in reviving investor confidence in the broader multi-year turnaround strategy, emphasizing local brand rejuvenation.
Management confirmed accelerated store estate transformation with a focus on prime UK high street and retail park locations. M&S announced it is on track with plans to open or renew 75 stores over the next three years, with 10 major new full-line stores and 70 food-first outlets unveiled in its latest update. This investment aims to modernise its footprint, improve accessibility, and consolidate its presence in critical regional markets, directly addressing evolving shopping habits within the UK.
Market sentiment turned notably positive post-earnings, with M&S shares rallying to their highest point since 2018 following the results release. After publishing its annual results, the M&S share price surged over 8% in a single day, signalling strong approval from UK institutional investors and analysts. Upgrades to earnings forecasts, a strengthened balance sheet, and a revived dividend policy have all contributed to a more constructive outlook for the stock, reflecting market confidence in management’s ongoing transformation agenda.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Marks & Spencer Group stock?
Marks & Spencer Group does not currently pay a dividend as of 2024. The company suspended its dividend payments in recent years to prioritise financial stability and strategic investments. Investors should monitor future announcements, as a resumption of dividends could be considered if profitability continues to improve. Historically, the company had a steady dividend track record before the pause.
What is the forecast for Marks & Spencer Group stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of approximately 309 GBX, the projected prices are: 402 GBX by the end of 2025, 464 GBX by the end of 2026, and 618 GBX by the end of 2027. Marks & Spencer benefits from ongoing revitalisation efforts in food and clothing, and recent trading updates show positive sales momentum, providing optimism for mid-term growth.
Should I sell my Marks & Spencer Group shares?
Holding onto your Marks & Spencer Group shares may be a prudent choice. The company has demonstrated resilience through challenging retail conditions and is executing successful strategies in digital transformation and store modernisation. Its recent improved profitability and strong brand position signal potential for further appreciation. Many investors see value in the company’s renewed direction and sector recovery.
Are Marks & Spencer Group shares eligible for an ISA, and how are they taxed in the UK?
Marks & Spencer Group shares can be held within a Stocks and Shares ISA, which shields any capital gains or dividends from UK tax. Outside an ISA, UK investors are liable for dividend tax above the annual threshold, and may owe capital gains tax if profits exceed allowances. Holding shares in an ISA can be a tax-efficient strategy, especially for those seeking to build long-term wealth.
What is the latest dividend for Marks & Spencer Group stock?
Marks & Spencer Group does not currently pay a dividend as of 2024. The company suspended its dividend payments in recent years to prioritise financial stability and strategic investments. Investors should monitor future announcements, as a resumption of dividends could be considered if profitability continues to improve. Historically, the company had a steady dividend track record before the pause.
What is the forecast for Marks & Spencer Group stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of approximately 309 GBX, the projected prices are: 402 GBX by the end of 2025, 464 GBX by the end of 2026, and 618 GBX by the end of 2027. Marks & Spencer benefits from ongoing revitalisation efforts in food and clothing, and recent trading updates show positive sales momentum, providing optimism for mid-term growth.
Should I sell my Marks & Spencer Group shares?
Holding onto your Marks & Spencer Group shares may be a prudent choice. The company has demonstrated resilience through challenging retail conditions and is executing successful strategies in digital transformation and store modernisation. Its recent improved profitability and strong brand position signal potential for further appreciation. Many investors see value in the company’s renewed direction and sector recovery.
Are Marks & Spencer Group shares eligible for an ISA, and how are they taxed in the UK?
Marks & Spencer Group shares can be held within a Stocks and Shares ISA, which shields any capital gains or dividends from UK tax. Outside an ISA, UK investors are liable for dividend tax above the annual threshold, and may owe capital gains tax if profits exceed allowances. Holding shares in an ISA can be a tax-efficient strategy, especially for those seeking to build long-term wealth.
