M&S has canceled its Christmas food ‘a la carte’ service for Irish customers this year

M&S has announced to customers that it will « unfortunately » not be able to serve Christmas food to customers in Ireland to order this festive season.

In an email to customers, M&S wrote: “We are writing to let you know, unfortunately, that we are unable to provide bespoke Christmas food service to customers in the Republic of Ireland this year.

“At M&S, we want to make this year’s Christmas magical for all of our customers. Given the current challenges in the food industry, there was a lot of risk that we would let customers down with essential items on their orders before the very important day – we would never want to do that.

« The good news is that we still have everything you need for a truly delicious Christmas in your M&S store.

« We look forward to welcoming you to your M&S store this Christmas. »

The announcement comes after the retailer announced the closure of 11 stores in France and the withdrawal of 800 lines at Irish M&S stores.

Marks and Spencer explained that « the long and complex export processes that followed the UK’s exit from the European Union are significantly constrained ».

She added that « complexities » in the post-Brexit supply chain made it « almost impossible for us to deliver fresh and chilled produce to customers to the high standards they expect ».

There are no plans in place to close Irish stores, but the recall of 800 products will undoubtedly affect regular shoppers.

Items pulled include free-range chicken, orchids, and goods containing Parmesan Reggiano.

A Marks & Spencer spokesperson said: “Brexit has already complicated and delayed shipping of Ireland’s products, and there is a lot of risk that customers will be let down if we try to fulfill CFTO orders and they are delayed or not fulfilled. Customers will still be able to buy Everything they need for Christmas in our M&S dining halls. »