George Davies New Collection

Marks & Spencer PLC
2 February 2001


2 February 2001



MARKS & SPENCER AND GEORGE DAVIES ANNOUNCE

LAUNCH OF NEW WOMEN'S FASHION COLLECTION


Today we announce an exciting development for Marks & Spencer.

George Davies will design, manufacture and supply a new women's fashion

collection exclusively for Marks & Spencer. His new collection will be aimed

at the fashion-conscious woman who defines herself by attitude, not age.

We will launch the range in October in up to 100 stores within specially

refitted areas of about 2,500 square feet.



George Davies has an outstanding track record in fashion clothing, having

conceived and created two successful businesses, on the high street for Next

and edge of town for ASDA. As Chief Executive of his new business, he will

break new ground with a supply chain to deliver exceptional speed and

flexibility.



With this announcement and the appointment earlier this week of Yasmin Yusuf

as Creative Director, Marks & Spencer has taken two major steps to strengthen

its position as Britain's leading clothing retailer, offering desirable, quality

products in  attractive, accessible and easy-to-shop stores. These moves 

underline Chairman & Chief Executive Luc Vandevelde's commitment to improve the 

design and appeal of our clothing ranges.



George Davies said, 'I have always been an admirer of Marks & Spencer and the

quality of its products. I passionately believe in this business, and I'm

delighted to  be working with Luc and Roger and their team.'



Roger Holmes, Managing Director UK Retail said, 'We are delighted that George

Davies,  who has a fantastic reputation in building fashion businesses, has 

chosen to supply exclusively to Marks & Spencer. This agreement will enable us 

to grow share in an important part of the market, while allowing the Marks & 

Spencer team to focus on our classically stylish customer by producing quality 

products at great value.'



The new company, which will be owned and directed by George Davies, will

share the same commitment to quality and ethical trading standards that

Marks & Spencer is known for.





Graham Oakley

Company Secretary



Contacts

Corporate Press Office 020 7268 6656

Investor Relations 020 7268 4195