What: A subjective comparison between two iconic UK retailers and international examples.

Why it is important: John Lewis has been trying to reinvent itself through expansion and new ventures, while M&S has simply rationalized its operations. For now, the latter is more successful than the former. Should department stores focus on what they do best?

The John Lewis Partnership, parent company of John Lewis department stores and Waitrose, has been facing challenges, including poor results, senior executive defections, and a staff vote of confidence on the leadership of Dame Sharon White. The decline in John Lewis's uniqueness, store closures, and the impact of a cost-of-living crisis have contributed to its struggles.

On the other hand, Marks & Spencer (M&S) has been successful in its turnaround efforts. M&S focused on product range, store real estate, and digital transformation. It streamlined its product offerings, optimized its store footprint, and invested in digital capabilities, resulting in strong financial performance and increased sales.

M&S's CEO, Stuart Machin, emphasized going back to the company's foundations of providing quality products at the best price and putting the customer at the heart of everything they do. In contrast, there are concerns that John Lewis may be trying out new strategies without addressing its core retail basics.

The key takeaway for retailers is to figure out their strengths and focus on doing those things exceptionally well. M&S's success comes from rejuvenating its sense of self and delivering what its customers expect, while John Lewis needs to address its core retail performance to regain its former glory.

A comparison between John Lewis and Marks & Spencer