Marks & Spencer is aiming to break back into the French market by planning 250 new overseas stores with 20 of the new food-only stores to open in Paris.

By 2017 Marks & Spencer, which already operates 455 international stores across 53 territories, plans to increase its international sales by 25% and profits by 40%.

Its main focus will be to expand its food and franchise operations in priority areas of the market which include India, China, Russia, the Middle East and Western Europe.

Marks & Spencer chief executive Marc Bolland said: “Our strategy of becoming an international, multichannel retailer is more relevant than ever before because of the strong growth potential of international markets. We are focusing on flagship stores to deliver brand presence and stand-out. We also see great opportunities in Fresh Food and Lingerie & Beauty concepts.”

M&S executive director of Food Steve Rowe said: “M&S Food is in much demand globally. From toasted crumpets in The Hague to red wine in China, our international customers are very quick to tell us what their favourite M&S products are. This is why expanding our fresh food offer presents us with a strong growth opportunity.

“We’re putting M&S Food on the map over the next five years. Western Europe is our focus and finding the right partners and locations is vital to the success of our plan to have the optimal Food store portfolio in this time.”