M&S Invests in Refrigeration to Withstand Extreme Heat
Marks & Spencer is investing in refrigeration equipment capable of operating in temperatures as high as 45C, anticipating that the climate crisis will lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves in the UK.
“There is no doubt we were struggling in the nine days of [recent] extreme heat,”Stuart Machin, chief executive of the food, fashion, beauty, and homewares retailer, stated during the group’s annual meeting in London on Tuesday.
Last month, the UK recorded its hottest June day ever, nearing the highest temperature ever documented in 2022. The Met Office announced on Monday that another heatwave is expected this week.
Machin explained that the company is investing in refrigeration technology designed to endure 45C heat, reflecting the assumption that UK temperatures will continue to rise. This investment reportedly includes fridges equipped with doors that help maintain cool temperatures during warmer weather.
Additionally, Machin revealed that M&S had to increase ice-cream orders substantially, leading one supplier to hire 10 extra staff members after six product lines went out of stock due to rapid demand in recent weeks.
Retailers Face Challenges with Refrigeration During Heatwaves
Machin’s remarks follow admissions from several retailers that their refrigeration units struggled to cope with the high temperatures experienced during June’s heatwave.
Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury’s, noted last week that staff and suppliers worked intensively to ensure the chain’s refrigeration systems could handle the heat. Roberts also mentioned that Sainsbury’s is investing hundreds of millions of pounds in new refrigeration equipment, with upgrades planned for approximately 100 stores.
With the UK expected to experience more frequent extreme heat events due to climate change, businesses are rapidly adapting. In May, the Climate Change Committee warned that the UK’s infrastructure was
“built for a climate that no longer exists”and emphasized the need for upgrades to withstand global warming.
Security Investments and Fashion Range Updates
At the annual meeting, Machin also addressed concerns about rising retail crime, assuring shareholders that M&S is increasing its investment in security measures.
The company has invested millions of pounds to expand the number of security guards employed through third-party providers. These guards receive training focused on customer interaction, including greeting and farewelling shoppers.
M&S is also implementing systems to combat petty theft, such as incidents where customers fail to scan and pay for items at self-service tills.
Machin further shared that, based on feedback from customers and his
“stylish 78-year-old”mother, M&S is ensuring its autumn and winter fashion collections include items that
“cover the tum, tops and bum”. This approach aims to broaden the appeal of its products while continuing efforts to attract younger shoppers in their 20s and 30s.
