Our Percy Pig tote bag competition to mark Marks and Spencer’s return to Putney High Street asks one question: which local business on Putney High Street deserves more recognition?
Twenty-five people have answered so far. Current joint leaders, with three votes each: Octagreen and Panda’s Pantry. The competition is still open until 5pm Friday (details in the daily newsletter) so if you want to see your favourite store up in lights, take the 10-second prize draw.
One lucky winner – chosen randomly – will get the Percy Pig tote bag.
Scores on the doors
| Business | Votes |
|---|---|
| Octagreen | 3 |
| Panda’s Pantry | 3 |
| The Source Bulk Foods | 2 |
| Boots | 2 |
| Dugard and Daughters | 2 |
| Marks & Spencer | 2 |
| Putney Library | 1 |
| No 1 Currency | 1 |
| Toni & Guy | 1 |
| Others | 1 each |
The range of choices shows a High Street that people care about, with independents they want to support.
What the store looks like inside
The new M&S is a 10,900 sq ft fresh market-style food hall. Pasta from Italy, fresh fruit and veg, flowers, an in-store bakery, a frozen section, and a higher welfare meat range that makes a point of saying so on the signage.
It’s spacious, well-lit, and feels like a store that has been designed rather than just fitted out. Opening hours are 7am to 9pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sundays. The opening created 40 new local jobs.
What readers made of the opening
Readers have also submitted reactions. They were, without exception, positive.
Paul Clements, from Putney, called it “amazing… one of the best food halls around.”
Nicki, who came from Clapham, said the shop was “busy but happy” and gave it “100% a fab shop.”
Anne Snedker from West Putney was glad to have it back: “My go-to store.”
Alex, from Lower Richmond Road, put it best: “Makes the High St feel alive again.”
One reaction came from Yvonne, who worked at the old M&S for 16 years before it closed. She came to see the new one from Hammersmith. Even former staff made the journey.
Yas from Putney was brief and direct: “Glad it’s back. Hope it stays open we missed it.”
Eight years is a long wait. The doors are open. The High Street feels different.
