Marks & Spencer: A Supermarket Experience in Edinburgh
Marks & Spencer (M&S) in Edinburgh promises a blend of great produce, quality food options, and a shopping experience designed for everyone. However, recent customer feedback highlights both its strengths and areas needing improvement.
In-Store Shopping and Accessibility
Shopping at M&S can be a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the store presents a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible car park, making it a choice destination for those with mobility concerns. Customers appreciate the wide aisles that facilitate easy navigation. However, some find the crowd can make shopping overwhelming, especially during peak hours.
Offerings and Highlights
The supermarket is known for its food offerings, particularly the bakery section that has garnered rave reviews. Shoppers often highlight the quality of bakery goods and well-displayed fresh produce. Yet, there have been complaints regarding the lack of stock and quality in various departments, which detracts from the overall experience of what is advertised as a premium store.
Cafe Experience
The M&S cafe offers a cozy spot to enjoy a meal or a quick refreshment. Despite the quick visit potential, many patrons have reported delays in service and issues with cleanliness. Reviews indicate that staff shortages in the cafe lead to dirty tables and slow service, resulting in a less-than-desirable dining experience.
Payment Options and Convenience
M&S offers a range of payments including cash only at some locations and the option for NFC mobile payments. While cash-only policies have frustrated some shoppers, many appreciate having multiple payment methods that cater to different client preferences.
Delivery and In-Store Pick-Up
For those who prefer shopping from home, M&S provides delivery options and in-store pick-up, allowing customers to conveniently collect their online orders. However, experiences with orders have been inconsistent, leading to confusion among shoppers when items are not available as expected.
Customer Service Insights
While many employees exhibit LGBTQ+ friendly attitudes and provide commendable service, others have fallen short, leading to notable dissatisfaction among customers. Some feedback suggests a need for better training and availability of staff, particularly during busy times. It's clear that providing adequate support could transform a mediocre shopping experience into an exemplary one.
Packing It Up: Parking and Location
Accessibility also extends to parking. M&S at Fort Kinnaird offers a free parking lot, although it can get crowded. Many shoppers recommend visiting during off-peak hours to find a space more easily.
Marks and Spencer Edinburgh stands out for its top-quality food selections and community-friendly policies but requires significant improvements in customer service and stock management for an enhanced shopping experience.
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The self-checkout tills used to have plexiglass between them, but now they've removed it and the space is so cramped that I keep bumping elbows with people. It seems they didn't really consider how much better it was for certain areas. Now I just feel anxious whenever I go there.
Hannah Watson (29/06/2025, 13:22):
Grocery shopping made simple. I adore M&S food, fantastic bang for your buck with discounted prices on a variety of items, perfect for stocking up and saving some cash. The store was surprisingly serene during my visit.
Andrew White (28/06/2025, 13:56):
I must say, I was completely taken aback by the lack of customer service in the lingerie department. While in the fitting room, I politely asked a lady for assistance - all I needed was her opinion and another size. Her response was, "No, there are two of us and we are busy with other customers!" I was so surprised that I was speechless! I then changed out of the clothing and reported the incident to another staff member, who acknowledged that the lady's response was inappropriate. If she had explained that she was busy and asked me to wait a few minutes or offered to find someone to help me, I would have been understanding. But to outright say NO? Following that experience, I was so put off that I decided not to make a purchase. It's disappointing. It's important for individuals to learn proper manners and understand their role in the workplace! Terrible experience - I won't be returning there!
Cynthia Brown (26/06/2025, 05:52):
Quite impressed by the recent expansion and upgrades in furniture at this supermarket. However, as is often the case, there seems to be a shortage of staff behind the counter, leading to longer waiting times even for a simple cup of coffee! With two service points available, one can't help but wonder why they aren't both staffed.
Paul Ortiz (24/06/2025, 01:17):
Absolutely dreadful experience at the restaurant. I must say, a minimum of three staff members were caught having a jolly good chat in the kitchen, while the hot food was not being promptly served. I had to endure a sweltering 20 minutes waiting for a simple hot filled roll. My advice? Seek dining options elsewhere.
Logan Cruz (22/06/2025, 15:01):
At some point in one's life, we all reach milestones. Establishing oneself as a regular shopper at M&S seems to be one of them, doesn't it? Fortunately, this particular M&S is quite well-stocked, offering not just their excellent food selection but also clothing and a decent array of household items. You won't find larger furniture pieces here, though.
If you haven't yet experienced shopping at M&S, I highly recommend giving it a go, even if just for their food. They offer top-notch fresh produce and vegetables on most days, but where they truly shine are the meals they prepare themselves. Not only do they provide the essentials you're after, but they often add a unique twist to traditional dishes or offer a diverse selection.
The only drawback to this store's location is that, despite all the years Fort Kinnaird has been around and the various changes to the car park, it still tends to get quite congested—almost gridlocked at times. Try to avoid peak hours if possible.
Emma Martinez (20/06/2025, 01:07):
I recently visited this establishment for the second time in the past fortnight. During my initial visit, I was disappointed to find they had run out of decaf coffee. Today, on my second visit, I encountered a similar situation with only one staff member taking orders, handling payments, and preparing drinks. This staff member appeared frustrated with the malfunctioning machines and overlooked my specific requests when making my coffee. As a result, I experienced a lengthy wait time and subpar service. It would be advisable to steer clear of this place for now. The management ought to implement some changes, particularly in supporting their staff members better.
Judy Phillips (19/06/2025, 19:34):
I absolutely adore popping into this place for my work pants and underwear, but I must say, the cafe could definitely step it up a notch. While they do serve food, it would be splendid if they could offer to warm up my cheese scone ever so slightly.
Cynthia Gray (19/06/2025, 12:46):
The ambiance is lacking, I must say. If you find yourself in Marks and Spencer and in need of a good cuppa, their coffee is quite delightful and the cakes are rather tasty. However, if given the option, I would recommend exploring other establishments for a more enjoyable experience.
Jerry Reed (19/06/2025, 08:10):
In the last 3-4 months, I have noticed a consistent issue with the ladies' toilets being out of order when shopping here. Today, I decided to have a meal at the cafe only to find that the toilets were once again unavailable. It appeared to me that the area leading to the toilets in the cafe was being used for the pickup of Christmas turkeys, and I was informed that I couldn't use the facilities without any explanation.
I strongly believe that if M&S is offering food and beverages, they should ensure the basic amenity of accessible toilets. While they are happy to take money from customers for dining and shopping (I spent £200 today), they seem to overlook this fundamental necessity. For many individuals with specific conditions, this can create a significant inconvenience and discomfort. With better foresight and planning, the store could greatly enhance the overall experience and comfort of visitors.
Joe Hughes (19/06/2025, 07:51):
The food hall was delightful and had a great variety of products. Nevertheless, I was seeking Christmas gifts and felt disappointed by the limited availability of larger sizes in-store and the overall clothing selection. As is often the case, the women's clothing options were lacking, whereas the men's section offered more appealing classic styles. It might be wiser to browse online for a more extensive range.
Jordan Nelson (17/06/2025, 13:38):
Located just beyond the park behind Primark, the parking at the front may be limited, but fear not as there are ample spaces in the main area of The Fort. Make your way to the rear where a recently renovated cafe awaits you, boasting a high standard of decor. The staff, both in the clothing section and the Food Hall, are approachable and friendly, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience.
Emily Gomez (16/06/2025, 06:47):
I popped into the local supermarket, hoping to snag a particular product only to find it out of stock. Imagine my disappointment! To add insult to injury, I noticed they had just opened a charming little cafe, but alas, there was a hiccup in the kitchen, and no cooked meals were available. Needless to say, it wasn't the most productive visit for me.
Ella Hill (16/06/2025, 06:45):
My mate and I popped in for a coffee – she’s gotta watch out for gluten – and they had a decent selection of gluten-free options. The staff were dead friendly and the café was spotless. Cheers!
Bobby Reed (15/06/2025, 14:10):
Well, this place is alright for a quick coffee and snack, but if you're looking for a more elevated experience with better food options, I'd recommend checking out "Patisserie Valerie." It's a bit pricier, but definitely worth it. You can find it on the other side of the Fort Kinnaird shopping complex.
Timothy Brooks (15/06/2025, 06:44):
Picked up a smashing pair of trousers, then had a go at foosball for a few delightful treats. Grabbed some fresh salad bits and the new coleslaw with yogurt dressing looks absolutely splendid. And that sweet potato salad with low-fat dressing? Absolutely brilliant. Already had a nibble and the flavors are top-notch. Delightful all around! Yum yum!
Ashley Reynolds (12/06/2025, 09:29):
I was able to place my order for next-day store delivery and decided to grab some lunch at the cafe. I'm not sure if they're currently training new staff in the kitchen, but this is the second time in recent weeks that I've had to wait a long time for a bacon roll or soup to be heated up! My tip would be to hold off on getting your hot drink until your food arrives if you've ordered both, otherwise you'll end up finishing it before your food even gets there. It wasn't even that crowded! Come on M&S - you're capable of much better than this!
Emily Taylor (10/06/2025, 17:11):
I absolutely adored it! The bakery section is simply splendid, and let's not forget about the exquisite wine selection - delicious and reasonably priced. I would highly recommend M&S for stocking up on pre-drinks to my fellow students, it's truly amazing!
The jewelry is stunningly chunky and decadent. I would be tempted to splurge my entire student loan on it, but I reckon that might not be the wisest decision.
Megan Campbell (10/06/2025, 02:45):
M&S really ought to consider investing in tray trolleys for customers to return their used plates. I noticed that many tables were cluttered with trays and the queue for coffee was quite lengthy. It seems like M&S could improve their standards in these areas.
