M&S ramps up battle with quick style teams

Marks & Spencer is increasing efforts to compete with fast fashion rivals by speeding up how quickly clothing ranges are refreshed in its shops.

The high street stalwart plans to bring between 20 and 30 new outfits into its branches every month as it tries to cash in on surging demand for ‘newness’ among consumers.

The rapidly changing ranges, many inspired by catwalk trends, will be in major city stores such as London, Manchester and Leeds – as well as online.

‘Each capsule collection will be tightly curated, outfit-driven and delivered from concept to collection at a quicker pace,’ said Maddy Evans, M&S director of womenswear.

Elegant: Actress Gillian Anderson styles Marks & Spencer for the retailer’s Spring 2026 range

The venture takes aim at a similar one by rival Zara – owned by Spanish clothing group Inditex – of selling smaller lines that sell out rapidly, heightening desirability.

M&S has launched a campaign with new ranges spearheaded by actress Gillian Anderson, too, who was last week named its ‘chief compliments officer’.