Marks and Spencer Case Study

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CS1208

The Association of Business Executives Advanced Diploma

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INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CASE STUDY

Marks & Spencer plc
afternoon 2 December 2008

This is an open-book examination and you may consult any previously prepared written material or texts during the examination. Only answers that are written during the examination in the answerbook supplied by the examination centre will be marked.

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© ABE 2008

D/500/3717

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Notes:
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As in real life, anomalies may be found in this Case Study. Please simply state your assumptions where necessary when answering questions. The ABE is not in a position to answer queries on Case data. Candidates are tested on their overall understanding of the Case and its key issues, not on minor details. There are no catch questions or hidden agendas. After the publication of the Case Study subsequent developments may occur. The examination is based on the published Case Study and students who do not mention such developments will not be penalised. However, students may consider such developments in their answers if they wish.

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Marks & Spencer plc
Marks & Spencer is a long-established UK-based retail chain selling men’s and women’s clothing and high quality fresh food and ready made meals. In 2007 Marks & Spencer (M&S) was the UK’s largest clothing retailer with a market share of 11.1%. Food sales accounted for 49.8% of its UK business and had a market share of 4.3%. The group’s international business accounted for 7.1% of turnover and had grown to 219 franchise stores in 34 territories worldwide as well as 8 wholly-owned stores in Hong Kong and 13 in the Republic of Ireland. During 2007, the company entered four new territories and opened 36 new stores including the group’s largest ever franchise store in Dubai at 52,000 sq ft. and... [continues]

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