Marks & Spencer Leaflets and tastings during a rival closure

What we did

M&S Foods in Canterbury, Kent, used the temporary closure of a nearby competitor's store to win over shoppers whose usual store was shut. The plan was a local push on value and quality, built on two direct tactics: leaflet distribution and in-store product tastings. We supplied promotional staff in M&S tops to work both inside and outside the store.

Our brand ambassadors carried M&S promotional materials and worked alongside the store team, who provided the tasting tables and detailed allergen information.

• Gave out offer leaflets outside the Canterbury store to catch passing shoppers
• Worked inside the store as well, so the offer message carried through to the aisles
• Ran product tastings at dedicated tasting tables inside the store
• Passed on the allergen information provided by the store team at every tasting
• Spoke to shoppers about M&S value and quality to encourage a first visit
• Gave shoppers from the closed store a clear reason to try M&S Foods instead

For store openings and local pushes across the county, our Kent event staff combine leafleting and tastings in one team.