M&S boss says Reeves made customers more worried with pre-budget speech

The GuardianWednesday, November 5, 2025 at 12:16:19 PM
M&S boss says Reeves made customers more worried with pre-budget speech

M&S boss says Reeves made customers more worried with pre-budget speech

Stuart Machin, the CEO of Marks & Spencer, expressed concerns that Rachel Reeves' recent pre-budget speech has heightened anxiety among shoppers regarding rising costs. This sentiment reflects a broader worry in the retail sector, as customers are increasingly apprehensive about potential tax increases that could impact their spending power. The implications of such economic uncertainty are significant for retailers, as consumer confidence is crucial for sales.
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