M&Co.
M&Co. (previously trading as Mackays, company name Mackays Stores Ltd.) is a UK chain store selling women's, men's, and children's clothes as well as small homeware products.
Established in 1834 in Scotland, though later trading nationally, and now one of the largest privately owned fashion retailers in the UK, M&Co. has been selling quality clothing for more than 50 years. With a retail portfolio of nearly 300 stores nationwide and an online presence.
History
1961
- Originally a pawnbroking business with its first store based in Clydebank in 1953, brothers Len and Iain McGeoch take full control of Mackays to transform the family business into a clothing retailer.
1969
- 50 stores trading. The first store is opened in London. Within a year, a chain of seven stores is purchased, prompting expansion in the south of the country.
Mid-1970s
- 100+ stores trading. The current head office and warehouse premises are acquired at Caledonia St, Paisley.
Mid-1980s
- 150+ stores. Mackays becomes one of the first multiple retailers to install full EPOS in all stores (a computer system that captures sales data and manages product replenishment). Success continues with 160 stores in operation by 1985. International ventures are pursued with the purchase of an American company with 120 stores. Benetton stores are opened in Australia, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland, none of which remain.
1992
- Len McGeoch returns from America to resume buying role.
Mid-1990s
- 220 stores trading. A children's franchise is operated in China and stores open in Poland (now closed).
1998
- Len McGeoch retires.
2000
- Fashion sub-brand Kylie launches its teen girl website.
2001
- Mackays corporate website is launched.
2004
- Ten new M&Co. stores open featuring fashion-focused ladieswear.
January 2006
- 240 Mackays and 30 M&Co. stores operational in the UK.
February 2006
- Ladieswear transactional website launched.
External links