Marks & Spencer has denied press reports that it is considering pulling the plug on its continental European operations. The retailer confirmed it has instructed estate agent Healey & Baker to review its property holdings in Spain, France, Germany and Portugal, but said the review was standard practice. "We've been working with Healey & Baker for nearly five years," said a spokesman, explaining that the reviews are conducted annually so that M&S can "keep abreast of the market value of its stores". "This is certainly not a precursor to moving out of Europe," he insisted. While it's no secret the continental European stores haven't performed outstandingly, he said, "things improved slightly in November". {{NEWS }}

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