Marks & Spencer is intensifying its European presence by expanding its partnership with online retailer Zalando. The British high street staple is now working with Zalando's logistics division, Zeos, to fulfill online customer orders throughout 22 continental European markets.
This collaboration has already led to a significant reduction in logistics costs, reportedly by up to half. In its initial week utilizing the new system, M&S observed a 22 percent increase in customer demand in Poland. The retailer aims to attract more international shoppers, particularly in its key online markets of France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain.
Mark Lemming, managing director of international at M&S, stated that the company has a clear objective to grow its international business by making its products accessible to a wider global customer base. "As demand for our fashion products grows across Europe, it's vital that we offer a seamless online shopping experience that matches the quality of our product," Lemming said.
The enhanced partnership also means reduced delivery and return times. Delivery has been expedited, and the window for returns has been shortened from a maximum of 35 days to eight days. These improvements are part of M&S's strategy to bolster its international sales, which saw a 7.2 percent decrease in the year leading up to March 28. The company attributed this decline partly to shipment delays to the Middle East following conflict that began in February.
Following a successful turnaround strategy under chief executive Stuart Machin and chairman Archie Norman, M&S has seen a resurgence in its appeal to younger consumers. The company has boosted sales across its fashion, homeware, and beauty divisions, recovering from a period last year when fashion sales were impacted by a cyberattack that disrupted online shopping for nearly two months. The company's efforts to enhance its international operations come after a challenging period for its overseas sales.