M&S discontinues school uniform essential after it sells out ahead of new term starting

M&S SHOPPERS have been left devastated after discovering a popular school uniform item has been discontinued just weeks before term starts.

The clothing to grocery retailer white girls polo shirts are no more after they sold out.

One eagle-eyed shopper noticed the shirts were out of stock.

They raised the issue with the company on X, formally known as Twitter.

They said: “@marksandspencer any idea when the girls white polos will be back in stock specifically in aged four to five.”

M&S replied saying: “These have now sold out and are discontinued.”

The pure cotton shirts were essential in many school children’s wardrobe and went from sizes two all the way up to 17.

A two pack of shirts cost anywhere between £6 to £11 depending on the age of the youngster.

The retailer offered a solution for the shopper and said they could shop its unisex white polo range, which is similar in price and size but has slightly longer sleeves.

They are available to buy either online or in store.

But it always worth ringing your local shop ahead of time to check stock availability to avoid disappointment.

The Sun has contacted M&S for a comment.

M&S, which has over 1,064 stores across the UK, has become a favourite amongst parents and guardians for their back to school shop.

But just a few months ago they were left disappointed after the store axed another popular uniform piece.

Earlier this year, it withdrew brown school trousers from its range.

M&S said it has stopped stocking the item due to a lack of demand, even though some schools insist on kids wearing them.

One angry parent said on X: “Why do you no longer make brown school trousers? Lots of us school mums really struggling to find any! Please help!! 

“Let’s hope your team can help! You would be helping a LOT of stressed parents!”

Another responded to her: “Completely agree… Marks and Spencer’s was the go to for the parents in our school. 

M&S offers jumpers, cardigans and pinafores in brown, but not trousers or skirts.

Asda’s George range offers two types of brown school trousers, including a two-pack with an elasticated waist although this is currently only available in sizes 3-4 and 12-13.

How to save on school uniforms

Preparing your little ones for the new school year can be expensive

Many retailers ramp up their back-to-school offerings in preparation for term starting in September, or August in Scotland.  

So it is always worth have a look online and in store for deals.

Supermarket Sainsbury’s has also maintained its 2022 prices on its school uniform.

It launched a 25% off sale on June 19 but that appears to be wrapped up now.

Buying on Vinted could be another way to make a saving as you can haggle for a cheaper price.

You could also sell your children’s old items on the app as a way to make some extra cash.

The Sun recently spoke to a mum who has done just that, you can read her story here.

How else can I save on school uniform?

If you are struggling to afford the cost of school uniform or PE kit, you may be able to apply for a grant from your local council – but the criteria vary from council to council.

This is usually in the form of a one-off payment paid directly into your bank account. Some councils will reimburse payments made to approved retailers.

You can ask your local council what help is available and when you need to apply.

If you can’t get targeted help from your council, there are other options to get cheap uniform.

Speak to your school to see if they can offer you some clothing.

Some charities offer help to families in need too. Charity Turn2Us has a free grants search tool on its website which you can use to find out what help is available to you.

Charity shops can also be a good place to find cheap school uniform.