You know that feeling when a shop becomes more than just a place where you buy things? That’s what Marks and Spencer Dublin has always been for me. And yes, I know it is officially called Marks and Spencer, but here we’ve always said “M&S.” It’s one of those little Dublin quirks that sticks, like calling the Luas “the tram,” or saying “press” instead of cupboard.
I’ve been going to Marks and Spencer’s since I was a kid. My mom used to take me into the Mary Street store on Saturdays. It was sort of a treat, really. It seemed fancy at the time. You’d walk in, and everything was so clean and polished. The food section smelled amazing, and the clothes looked like something out of a catalog. I remember thinking, This is where grown-ups shop.
My First Stylish Purchase at M&S
I will never forget buying my first coat there: I was about nineteen, had just started working part-time in a café, and I wanted something that made me look like I had my life together. That’s when I found this navy wool coat, tailored just right, and of course, as you’ve already guessed…it cost more than I’d ever spent on clothes before. But I wore it everywhere. Quite the memory.
That’s the thing about Marks and Spencer Dublin: it’s not just about what you buy, it’s about how it makes you feel, like you’re stepping into a place that’s reliable, a bit posh, but still inviting. Not forgiving on quality, too, which certainly puts our mind at ease, bringing us good value for money. One can easily see why they have such a reliable customer base.
The History of Marks and Spencer Dublin
Marks and Spencer opened its first store in Dublin on Mary Street in 1979; that was a big deal at the time. Very few international retailers were in Ireland, and M&S brought in things we’d never seen before: Chicken Kievs, ready meals, exotic desserts. People were fascinated. It was like a window into another world.
Then, in 1988, they opened the Grafton Street store. That one quickly became the go-to for city center shoppers. These days you’ll find M&S stores across Dublin – including a massive one in Dundrum Town Center. But Grafton Street still feels like the heart of it.
Why Dubliners Love the Marks and Spencer Foodhall?
Now, about the Foodhall: if you have never been there, then you’re definitely missing out. It’s not just groceries; it’s gourmet meals, international flavors, and sweet treats that make you feel like a kid again.
They have this Gastropub range, which is perfect for lazy nights: think creamy pies, cheesy bakes, and dishes that taste like they came from a proper restaurant. The global food section is brilliant, too-I’ve picked up everything from Keralan King Prawn Curry to XO Prawn Noodles that hold their own against takeaway fare.
Then there is the sweet stuff: Percy Pig sweets, which are a cult favorite, and Colin the Caterpillar cakes, which are birthday must-haves… at least to me! I have bought more of those than I can count. But hey, considering their recent fairs, do check out the ingredients before making a purchase if you are planning to cut back on added sugar items.
What’s nice is that they’re not just about luxury any longer. Their Remarkable Value campaign means you can get everyday essentials at decent prices: fresh produce, bakery items, and cupboard staples. It’s not cheap, but it’s fair. And you know you’re getting quality.
My only complaint is that some items are always out of stock. For example, I really love the coconut ice cream Tiramisu 500 gram… and what do you know, most of the time I return empty-handed because they are out of stock…again. So, I’d say keep one or two backup plans ready for your favorite or most needed items.
Supporting Irish Suppliers and Local Produce
One thing I really respect is how they support local producers. M&S Ireland works with suppliers like Killowen Farm for yogurts and Lir for chocolates. I find it really amazing that they make it a point to work with over 800 Irish suppliers.
What’s more? They stock up on more than 3,500 Irish products. They’re part of the Origin Green program from Bord Bia, which means they’re serious about sustainability and local sourcing. And, it’s not mere lip service, either. You can clearly see the Irish products labeled as such, and there is a pride in them. It feels good knowing your money’s going to support homegrown businesses.
Fashion and Home Shopping at M&S
Now, I’m no fashionista, but I do like clothes that fit and last. Marks and Spencer Dublin nails that. Everything is here, from relaxed to tailored pieces, in their women’s section. I love the Autograph line when I want to wear something a little more polished, and Per Una is good for everyday wear.
They also do proper inner garment fittings, which is a lifesaver. I brought my cousin in once, and she was just amazed, saying it was the first time she’d ever worn a top inner garment that actually fit so seamlessly.
For men, they have M&S Collection and Jaeger. It just so happened we ended up shopping at M&S for my brother’s wedding. Now…my brother literally swears by their suits. He did a fitting at the Grafton Street store before his wedding, and of course looked sharp as ever, making him the evergreen fan now. And honestly, I also get it.
And the home section is worth looking at, too: bedding, kitchenware, cushions, candles-you name it. I have picked up bits for my flat over the years, and they have held up well. They do seasonal collections, too, and the sales can be pretty generous.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Marks and Spencer is not all about selling, but they have a very strong sustainability plan, Plan A. The goal is to be net zero across their whole value chain by 2040. That’s ambitious, but they seem serious about it. There are even documents and official announcement reports about it.
They also run programs, such as Marks and Start, which help people who’ve faced barriers to employment. That includes folks with disabilities or those coming out of tough situations. It is that kind of thing that just makes you feel better about spending your money there…you know!
Does M&S Still Matter Today?
For me, Marks and Spencer Dublin is part of the rhythm of life: where I go in search of a last-minute gift, a decent meal, or just a bit of comfort shopping. The staff are friendly (…mostly), the stores are clean, and the products are reliably good.
Be it popping onto Grafton Street on your lunch break or making a day of it in Dundrum, there’s something reassuring about knowing what you’ll find. It’s familiar but never boring. So if you are ever in Dublin and wondering where to shop, just give Marks and Spencer a shot.
You might walk out with more than you planned, but you’ll walk out happy. However, for more updates on shoe shops, curated shops and bakeries please check out Dublinz on Facebook and Instagram now!
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