Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Going Down: Marks & Spencer

Saturday 16 January 1999 20:02 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Shares in Marks & Spencer fell 16 per cent to their lowest level in more than five years as the company said pre-tax profit this year will plunge by as much as 46 per cent after Christmas sales fell short of forecasts. Clothing and furnishing fared the worst.

The company's difficulties have multiplied in recent months. Its shares, once a byword for steady growth, have sunk 44 per cent in the last 12 months. A management battle has resulted in the appointment of a new chief executive, Peter Salsbury, who takes over next month. The company is also eliminating two senior executive positions and will create three units to oversee British retailing, overseas retailing and financial services.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in