More than 17,500 customers visited the new Marks & Spencer Foodhall in Carlisle in its first week.

Store manager Robbie Sarginson said the new shop on the Kingstown Retail Park had "surpassed all expectations" since welcoming customers for the first time last week.

He said: "It's been unbelievable really. We have been so busy.

"We have taken a lot of money and feedback from customers has been good."

Mr Sarginson said customers had told staff they liked the spacious, airy nature of the store and had commented on friendly staff, the range of products and the ease of car parking.


Robbie Sarginson He said: "We have taken on board the positive comments and are addressing one issue relating to a kerb outside which customers have commented on.

"Basically, the kerb at the entrance to the store isn't low enough so we are trying to get that sorted with our landlord.

"We need to get it changed and we are striving to do that."

The shop - which has a cafe and bakery - saw about 2,500 customers pass through its doors every day in its first week.

Mr Sarginson said: "We've smashed our sales estimate which is great news.

"The shop has been really, really popular and our staff have worked hard."

The store, which employs more than 50 people, is next door to Argos, Hobbycraft and Next Home.

It has access to 100 car parking spaces and stocks a range of more than 5,000 products, including flowers and cards.

It also has a food ordering service and a "collect in store" service.

Marks & Spencer already has a longstanding foodhall in Carlisle city centre.

The high street giant also has a foodhall branch at Penrith and Southwaite.