On June 15th M&S is reopening the majority its clothing stores to the public again - and it's now shared the details of how it will all work.

M&S said it took the lessons it learnt from running its food stores throughout the pandemic, and applied them to work out how to safely operate its clothing business.

Fitting rooms are closed, for one - and in-store bra fitting it right out - while most cafés will still be shut. But on the upside, you'll have 90 days to return things and tills will accept up to £45 via contactless.
Marks & Spencer will be different when it reopens (
Image:
Getty)

And it's all aimed at making sure people feel confident picking up clothes in person again.

M&S retail operations director Andrew Walmsley said: "Whilst shopping may feel different, there will still be the same great service and expert advice customers expect of M&S, as well as more digital solutions to supplement the in-store experience – such as our enhanced online bra fit tool.”

Here's what's changing:

The new rules of clothes shopping at M&S
caption: M&S's new rules for people shopping at its reopened clothing stores

  • When you arrive : A friendly colleague will manage the flow of customers in and out of all M&S stores to maintain social distancing – so there may be a short queue

  • When you enter : Hand sanitiser will available and the baskets to use will all be metal ones making them easier to be regularly cleaned

  • Throughout the shop : Shop safely signs and floor markings will be clearly visible to remind everyone to give each other the space they need and to make it easier to find products – undoubtedly customers will be more mission focused in how they shop

  • Service alternatives : The M&S team will be keeping all close-contact services temporarily closed, this includes bra fittings, suit fittings and kidswear footwear fittings. The retailer has enhanced its bra fit tool on its website and colleagues will also be on hand to give advice

  • Cafés closed : Cafés will remain closed to sit in, but selected stores will offer coffee to go with contactless collection. These cafés have already sold over 24,000 cups of coffee since reopening

  • Making payments : All M&S tills will have perspex screens installed and clear signage encouraging contactless payments; M&S Clothing tills are set up to accept the new £45 limit

  • Fitting rooms : Fitting rooms will remain closed but for now M&S’s refund policy will remain at 90 days, helping customers shop with confidence

  • Online options : M&S will continue to offer Click & Collect to all stores, 7 day a week, completely free