M&S Ilford Exchange: East London store to close this week

The latest update follows after the retailer revealed on March 15 plans to close its Ilford store, citing changing shopping habits as the reason for the discussions.

According to the retailer, sales at its Ilford Exchange store have been on a "consistent" decline, leading it to look to a 2017 decision to "accelerate [the] store closure programme". 

Until today (June 28) the closing date for the store in Bessborough Road has remained uncertain. 

A spokesperson for the company confirmed the shop will cease trading on June 29. 

It will be the latest retail giant to close its store in Ilford's centre (Image: Google Maps) They said: “Shopping habits are changing, so we’re rotating our store estate to make sure we have the right stores with the right space to offer the best possible shopping experience.

"Over the past two years alone, we have invested over £23 million in our stores across Greater London and we are open to exploring suitable alternative sites in the wider area for a food hall.

"Thank you to all our customers who have shopped in the store over the years.

"We will keep serving you at our stores in Stratford City and South Woodford, convenience stores in Newbury Park and Wanstead – and of course online.”

The closure will mean customers will have to travel to the next nearest store in Westfield Stratford City. 

News of the proposed closure sparked outcry. 

• RELATED: Ilford Marks and Spencer closure plan sparks sad reaction

Shushila Patel, a regular at the store, told the Recorder in March: "When shops like that go, they leave a void.

"And for Marks and Spencer to go, it won’t just leave a void, it will be the death of Ilford. I really feel that.

"I personally really strongly believe that Marks and Spencer has been the cornerstone of our High Road high street."

An M&S spokesperson last week denied the branch had already closed after its Open Status on Google showed as "temporarily closed".