With the collapse of Debenhams and House of Fraser, predicting the end of the department store is definitely premature given the fabulous new concept from Marks & Spencer which unites food and fashion into one stylish space.   

Located on the site of the old Debenhams store of the future at the Roaring Meg Retail Park in Stevenage, outside London, this new M&S concept features sophisticated design from Dalziel & Pow, Whippet and the inhouse team.   

The 75,000 sq ft store features the glorious food renewal design, first seen at Clapham & Southampton, alongside a brand new look for fashion, beauty, kids and home. There’s also a 174 seat cafe and stand-alone opticians.   

There is a renewed focus on visual merchandising and curated departments, which combine great display and communication alongside charming service elements, such as ‘meet the team’ and ‘outfitters favourites’ in Lingerie.   

Service has been streamlined with self service tills and combined click and collect and fitting rooms.  

 This is the bold new face of M&S.