Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced it has signed a new franchise agreement in the Philippines with PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk (MAP), a lifestyle retailer in Indonesia.

The food and clothing retailer said the move is part of its aim to build a global brand through capital light partnerships which leverage the expertise and infrastructure of strategic franchise partners in established markets.

MAP has operated M&S’s franchise business for over 26 years in both Indonesia and Vietnam, delivering strong growth in each, M&S said.

M&S has operated in the Philippines since 1984. Earlier this year, the company confirmed it would switch to a new franchise partner to support its growth plans in the region.

Under the new partnership, products from the company’s fashion, home, beauty, and food ranges will be available at the end of this year, with the first store set to open in a shopping centre in Manila.

MAP currently has a portfolio of over 150 brands including department stores, fashion, food, and sports brands. The company operates more than 4,000 retail stores in over 80 cities across Indonesia.

“Having played a pivotal role in driving our growth in Indonesia, MAP’s deep local expertise gives us confidence as we accelerate our growth plans in Southeast Asia,” said Mark Lemming, managing director of M&S International. “We know there is strong demand for the M&S brand in the Philippines, and we’re excited to reopen our stores and online channels later this year.”

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