25 Jun 2007


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Ethics plan is central to M&S future, says Stuart Rose

Marks & Spencer

Stuart Rose

ethics

green-retail

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Marks & Spencer chief executive Stuart Rose has defended as integral to the company's future his plan to turn the company into Britain's most ethical retailer.

“This is not a one-off trick or a bit of greenwash," he told today's Times newspaper.

"It is not what we are going to do for 2007 and the M&S team will come up with a different idea for 2008. This is now part of the new M&S.”

He argued that the plan would play a major part in the next phase of growth, helping M&S to differentiate itself from the more price-led end of the market.

“If this is going to be a business with the right credentials to survive in the 21st century, then we have to adapt. Using Al Gore's idea – responsible business can be profitable business.

"The consumer is increasingly aware of the issues and the fact there is a need to do something. M&S is well placed to take a lead in that.”

Rose also indicated that the current financial year was crucial to M&S's development.

“I have always said that 2007-08 would be the most important year for M&S. We have had top-line growth for seven or eight quarters and been improving market share to nearly historic highs. We have to prove we can keep that momentum going,” he said.

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