Product development boss at Marks & Spencer inspires niche outfits after unexpected success on social media She is not the most likely viral star. But with 310,000 followers on TikTok and 270,000 on Instagram, Marks & Spencer Food’s director of product development, Kathryn Turner, has suddenly become one of the year’s big hits on social media.

Also readCity of London chief tops UK Black Powerlist

Her videos take the viewer with her as she goes in-store to look at new dessert launches, including its banana, caramel and pecan pudding, or taste test its latest products, such as its cherry and chocolate cookies . Turner is part of Marks & Spencer’s wider social media strategy implemented in 2020 as a way of attracting younger shoppers.

Instead of using traditional influencers, M&S now champions 100 of its own employees on TikTok. Continue reading...

Also readThe Guardian view on Labour’s fiscal devolution: the future of Burnhamism will play out in municipal England | Editorial