How to Search
How do I search the Archive Catalogue?
You can use the basic search box to type what you’re looking for, just like you would if you were using Google or another search engine. Or you can use ‘Advanced Search’ to search title and description fields for our chosen terms, narrow your search to specific dates or specific parts of the collection. The more fields you use, the more specific your search will be. See our film on ‘Using the Archive Catalogue’ for tips.
Why can't I find what I'm looking for?
Searching will only find the exact words used in the catalogue, so try several related terms if you can’t find what you want. Alternatively, it might be that we haven’t catalogued the items that you are looking for yet, or that the M&S Archive does not hold the material you are looking for. There are some gaps within our archive collection (for example, many early records were pulped as part of the national response to paper shortages during the Second World War 1939 – 1945) and the M&S Archive does not provide access to current business information about M&S. If you can’t find what you are looking for please contact the archive team.
Why is there no image/a poor quality image for my item?
We’re adding to and upgrading the images we’ve got, but it’s a massive task that will take time. Please contact us if you can’t find what you need.
Can I use images for my research?
You are welcome to use the Archive Catalogue images for personal study or research. Conditions apply and all images are subject to UK copyright law. You must contact the archive team before sharing, reproducing or publishing our images in any way.
How do I arrange to see the archives?
To access the collection for in-depth research, please identify the items you are interested in by using our Archive Catalogue and then get in touch by email, quoting the archive reference numbers. Depending on the amount and type of material you wish to consult, we will either provide digital access or invite you to make an appointment to consult material in person in our Reading Room
Can I click something in the Archive Catalogue to access the digital version of the archive?
Yes, if a digital version is available the bottom of the record page will show the option to ‘View in Digital Archive’ by clicking on a link. This will take you directly to the item within our separate Digital Archive. If a digital version of the archive isn’t available, the record page won’t include this option.
What does Access Status mean?
This tells you whether the item you are interested in is accessible. Some records are restricted or closed access due to Data Protection legislation, because they are commercially sensitive or because they are very fragile.