Berenberg announced on Friday that it had initiated coverage of Marks & Spencer shares with a 'hold' recommendation and a price target of 410 pence.

In a study of UK consumer-related stocks, the analyst is optimistic about the sector as it approaches 2025.

In his view, the major themes that have prevailed in recent years (supply capacity, cost pressures, the rise of AI, mergers & acquisitions and sector consolidation) are set to continue.

One thing is certain," he adds, "the need to make substantial investments in order to guarantee the success of one's business will once again come to the fore, putting pressure on the most vulnerable companies with the weakest balance sheets, leading to a new wave of M&A and consolidation.

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