Learn how M&S built their first sustainable learning store

In 2007 M&S launched Plan A, an eco and ethical strategy tackling climate change, waste, raw materials, health and being a fair partner. In 2010 the retailer committed to building two sustainable learning retail outlets each year: The first, Ecclesall Road in Sheffield opened its doors in April 2011.

The stores will help M&S develop their knowledge of sustainable construction by trailing new technologies and processes which if successful can be rolled out across their property portfolio. It’s part of M&S’s drive to become one of the world’s most sustainable retailers by 2015. 

The Simply Food store was built on the site of an old petrol station, recycling all the construction waste and using reclaimed bricks from a local mill to build the outer shell.

The team overcame retail lighting quality issues often associated with LED lighting, which have been installed throughout, reducing energy consumption by a predicted 25%.  A heat reclaim system which recycles the waste heat from refrigerators to heat the building is set to reduce carbon emissions by 23%. 

Aiming for a BREEAM Excellent retail rating with a score of 78.49%, head of construction, Munish Datta says: “Engaging people in trying to deliver a project like this is all about winning hearts and minds.”

“It’s about making sure that people are with you in terms of knowing how important it is to create sustainable buildings… then actually they’ll work harder for you to create, and deliver on some of the tough targets that you’ve set for it”.