How major retailer’s presence has changed through more than 80 years

Kentish Express historian Steve Salter said Marks & Spencer arrived in Ashford in 1934 after taking over the premises of the former Lavells newsagent and G.H. Hunter tailor shop at 64-66 High Street.

The company built a new store which opened on May 29, 1934, and Mr Salter said: “In the next 44 years, the company went from strength to strength in their prime location in the High Street.

“But as the decades and fashions changed, the company increased their merchandise, introducing new lines and requiring more floor space.

“By 1978, the company had outgrown their High Street premises, which is now occupied by Barclays Bank and the Iceland store.

“M&S moved further up the High Street into a new building, which was originally part of the second phase of the Tufton Shopping Centre, which is now known as County Square.”

In 2014 the company marked its 80th year at the heart of Ashford town, and it remains a favourite of many shoppers. The company was also one of the first to open at the Designer Outlet in Ashford, and will now be opening its third store in the town in the coming months.

Picture: M&S company archive The redundant premises at 64-66 High Street, acquired by Marks & Spencer for their shop in 1934

Marks & Spencer in Ashford High Street in 1958, with Boots the Chemist next door

Picture: M&S company archive Ashford’s then-new Tufton Shopping Centre site in 1979