M&S gives major update on its 20% off ‘back-to-school' uniform sale – and it's bad news for parents
The high street retailer has long been a popular choice for school wear thanks to its affordable prices and "durable" range.
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But this year, the retailer has confirmed it has frozen prices on its school uniforms for the fifth year running.
The decision comes after a cyber incident forced the company to suspend online operations for nearly six weeks, resulting in estimated losses of around £300 million.
Uniform price freeze for five years running
In a statement, the company said: "In our Kidswear, we're focused on offering a first price, right price.
"Which is why this year, we have continued to hold prices on our market-leading school uniform for the fifth year in a row, as well as reducing prices on our everyday essentials range by up to 20 per cent."
While the news has comes as a shock to many parents, dozens say they will continue shopping at the retailers regardless.
One said: "Such a shame but I will also still be shopping my children's uniforms from M&S, the price is brilliant for the quality and they last!"
While another added: "Still gonna go to M&S, I've tried all brands and nothing close to the quality of M&S."
And a third commented: "I'll stick with M&S as you don't need to replace unless for sizing or an overenthusiastic art class."
Earlier this year, M&S cut prices on more than 100 items, including t-shirts, vests, hoodies, and shorts by up to 20 per cent.
The firm said the move was part of its broader commitment to offer value to families facing rising living costs.
Strong value
While the lack of a summer discount may disappoint some shoppers, M&S maintains that its school uniforms continue to offer strong value.
The range includes features designed to grow with children, such as adjustable waistbands and growth-proof hems, along with easy-iron shirts and permanent pleats in skirts.
Prices start at £4.50 for a two-pack of cotton polo shirts, available in sizes from 2 to 18 years.
All school wear includes stain-resistant technology and is covered by the retailer's extended 100-day returns policy.
Alexandra Dimitriu, Kidswear Director at M&S, said: 'As the UK market leaders during the back-to-school season, we're maintaining the magic of M&S.
"Trusted value and hand-me-down quality sit at the heart of what we offer in kidswear, which is why we have held our prices for the fifth year in a row.'
She added that the company has also reduced prices on selected children's daywear by up to 20 per cent.
Limited Stock
M&S recently resumed online trading after the cyber attack, but some customers have reported limited availability of popular products.
The retailer said: 'For products that are not available online, customers can add them to their wish list and when they come back into stock we will let them know."
Last year, shoppers were left devastated when the clothing to grocery retailer sold out of white girls polo shirts.
One eagle-eyed shopper noticed the shirts were out of stock.
They raised the issue with the company on X, formally known as Twitter.
How can I save money on school uniforms?
IF you are struggling to afford the cost of school uniform or PE kit, you may be able to apply for a grant from your local council - but the criteria vary from council to council.
This is usually in the form of a one-off payment paid directly into your bank account. Some councils will reimburse payments made to approved retailers.
You can ask your local council what help is available and when you need to apply.
If you can't get targeted help from your council, there are other options to get cheap uniform.
Speak to your school to see if they can offer you some clothing.
Some charities offer help to families in need too. Charity Turn2Us has a free grants search tool on its website which you can use to find out what help is available to you.
Charity shops can also be a good place to find cheap school uniform.
They said: "@marksandspencer any idea when the girls white polos will be back in stock specifically in aged four to five."
M&S replied saying: "These have now sold out and are discontinued."
The pure cotton shirts were essential in many school children's wardrobe and went from sizes two all the way up to 17.
A two pack of shirts cost anywhere between £6 to £11 depending on the age of the youngster.
The retailer offered a solution for the shopper and said they could shop its unisex white polo range, which is similar in price and size but has slightly longer sleeves.
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