Sir Stuart enjoys last hurrah

By: Joe Ayling - 14 July 2010 17:09

Sir Stuart and Twiggy at today's AGM

Russian spies, headless gingerbread men and slow clapping all figured at Marks and Spencer's annual general meeting (AGM) in London today (14 July).

Sir Stuart, who was re-elected as chairman for the last time, signed off with a snapshot of his six years in charge of the UK's clothing retailer - from Plan A to the ravages of recession.

There was even an appearance by iconic M&S model Twiggy, who wheeled out Sir Stuart's famous clothing trolley for his annual presentation of best performing fashion items.

New CEO Marc Bolland must have wondered what was going on, as chuckling shareholders lapped up the party atmosphere orchestrated by his predecessor.

But as Bolland said, Sir Stuart has installed a family ethos at Marks and Spencer, meaning that AGM day feels more like an event than a chore.

Reflecting on his time in charge, he said: "I am enormously proud to have led this company over the past six years, it has been a privilege and a pleasure."