Marks & Spencer is set to install self-service checkouts in changing rooms across its 180 clothing stores, allowing shoppers to skip double queuing when trying on clothes.

According to The Telegraph, the British retail giant plans to implement the technology in more than 100 stores by early 2028, with 28 locations already equipped with the new system, including its flagship Fosse Park store in Leicester.

Operations director Sacha Berendji explained the rationale behind the initiative, telling the broadsheet: "We'd like customers to be able to walk straight into the fitting room with no queue, try on what they've chosen, then pay there and just walk out."

The move comes despite earlier concerns raised by M&S chairman Archie Norman about middle-class shoplifting linked to self-checkouts. Norman had previously warned that theft was "creeping in" due to scanning difficulties.

To address security concerns, Berendji confirmed that staff would be "hosting" changing room areas to ensure customers pay for their items. "Shoplifting is a major problem in this country, but there are things that we're all doing to make sure we can mitigate some of those losses," he said.

The retailer is currently installing one checkout per changing room area, with plans to add more based on customer demand. Berendji emphasised that traditional payment options would remain available: "This is all about choice. If you want to be served by a colleague, that's absolutely OK and you always can be. But if people want to serve themselves, they can do that instead."

The initiative is part of a broader store transformation programme, which has seen M&S invest £32 million in stores across the Midlands, following the opening of 31 new stores and refurbishment of 45 existing locations in London and the South West over the past 18 months.

---