M&S to trial BP sites

Marks & Spencer is planning to trial its Simply Food format at eight BP Connect forecourt sites in autumn. The trial will offer customers own-brand ready meals, fresh produce, sandwiches, wine, flowers and basic groceries, alongside BP's Wild Bean Café.

Chief executive Stuart Rose said: 'We open a new Simply Food store on average every 10 days, at convenient locations, such as high streets and railway stations. This trial with BP is an opportunity to investigate the potential for further expansion.'

The announcement comes as the retailer delivers year-end results showing profits tumbling almost 20 per cent. In an attempt to boost flagging sales, the retailer is considering ways of improving its store portfolio. Over the weekend, it emerged that M&S has pledged£300 million in a store refurbishment programme and is also considering out-of-town sites, while closing down some high street locations.