Marks & Spencer to tap into vegan fashion trend

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Jan 15, 2019

Marks & Spencer is launching a range of affordable vegan shoes for men and women this month to meet growing demand for cruelty-free fashion.

Until now, the retailer had only sold vegan products in its food and beauty departments.

But growing interest for vegan alternatives across fashion, beauty and food, has prompted the national chain to expand its offering to a substantial footwear collection.

350 vegan styles for men and women will launch in M&S stores and online this month, including trainers, court shoes, mules and loafers.

Leather and suede-free accessories such as bags, wallets and bags will complement the collection.

“After increased customer interest in veganism and a rise in online searches for related products, we decided to investigate the possibility of expanding our vegan-friendly offering into footwear and accessories,” Rachel Smith, senior footwear technologist at M&S.

“Over the year, we have analyzed our products and gone the extra mile to ensure we offer a great selection that complies with all vegan requirements.”

Marks & Spencer is planning to close 100 stores by 2022, and it revealed this week the next 17 branches that have been earmarked for closure. Over 1,000 jobs will be affected by the closures, taking place in cities including Luton, Hull and Huddersfield.