SandpiperCI announced that company will be expanding its food retail activities into the United Kingdom. The organization, which was formed in 2007 when it bought what was then C.I. Traders, has reached agreement with Marks and Spencer Group plc to open M&S Food stores in Southwest England. The deal will increase the size of SandpiperCI's current retail operations, which have to date, been mostly based in the Channel Islands, with additional outlets in the Isle of Man and the British overseas territory of Gibraltar.

SandpiperCI can trace its history back with M&S for more than 50 years when a franchise agreement was signed in 1967. The arrangement was unique at that time and the relationship between the two organizations naturally developed into a very successful longstanding business partnership. Recognizing the success of SandpiperCI's franchise arrangements with M&S, the Channel Islands' based business began an expansion programme and introduced a high-quality portfolio of franchise brands covering food, clothing, and specialist products.

Amongst others, the brands include: Morrisons, Iceland, Matalan, Costa Coffee, Burger King, Hotel Chocolat, Cardfactory and Sandpiper's Apple Authorized Premium Reseller, iQ. The expansion program into the UK is underway. Property teams are identifying prime retail sites in towns and cities across the southwest of England.

An experienced Operations Director has been appointed to oversee the UK operation and the first M&S food stores are expected to be open and trading in the spring of next year (2023).