Reinstate Amar's Pitch Outside Congleton M&S

Reinstate Amar's Pitch Outside Congleton M&S

The Issue

For over a decade, Amar has been a mainstay right outside the Marks & Spencer in Congleton. Whenever I visit, it's almost a ritual to stop and chat with him, ask after his day, and let my children soak in his immersive stories. Amar is not just a familiar face; he's a part of the very fabric of our local retail park experience, making it a warmer and more welcoming place.

Recently, however, Amar has been asked to move away from his usual spot by the new M&S management. This decision feels heartless and disregards the rapport Amar has built with the Congleton community; he even helps draw customers into the M&S branch. He greets everyone with nothing but a smile and a friendly wave, never pressuring anyone for money, just offering genuine kindness and a touch of human connection.

Moving Amar is not just a frustration for him but for all of us who visit Marks & Spencers regularly. It's a break in tradition and community spirit. Amar's presence is a local delight, an element that makes our shopping trips all the more special, especially for those of us with children who have grown to see him as a friend in the community. Moving him away from the store into the elements is almost inhumane - he's just trying to earn a living for his young family. 

In a world where commerce often overshadows community, we urge the new management at Marks & Spencers, Congleton, to reconsider this decision. Revoking Amar's usual pitch feels inhumane and out of step with the values of community support and kindness we cherish in Congleton. M&S even partner with homeless charities, of which the Big Issue is one of these. 

Please join us in petitioning the management to reinstate Amar's pitch directly outside Marks & Spencers, underneath the front awning and out of the elements, ensuring that this beloved character continues to bring joy and connection to our local shopping experience. Sign this petition to support Amar and preserve the unique charm he brings to us all.

842

The Issue

For over a decade, Amar has been a mainstay right outside the Marks & Spencer in Congleton. Whenever I visit, it's almost a ritual to stop and chat with him, ask after his day, and let my children soak in his immersive stories. Amar is not just a familiar face; he's a part of the very fabric of our local retail park experience, making it a warmer and more welcoming place.

Recently, however, Amar has been asked to move away from his usual spot by the new M&S management. This decision feels heartless and disregards the rapport Amar has built with the Congleton community; he even helps draw customers into the M&S branch. He greets everyone with nothing but a smile and a friendly wave, never pressuring anyone for money, just offering genuine kindness and a touch of human connection.

Moving Amar is not just a frustration for him but for all of us who visit Marks & Spencers regularly. It's a break in tradition and community spirit. Amar's presence is a local delight, an element that makes our shopping trips all the more special, especially for those of us with children who have grown to see him as a friend in the community. Moving him away from the store into the elements is almost inhumane - he's just trying to earn a living for his young family. 

In a world where commerce often overshadows community, we urge the new management at Marks & Spencers, Congleton, to reconsider this decision. Revoking Amar's usual pitch feels inhumane and out of step with the values of community support and kindness we cherish in Congleton. M&S even partner with homeless charities, of which the Big Issue is one of these. 

Please join us in petitioning the management to reinstate Amar's pitch directly outside Marks & Spencers, underneath the front awning and out of the elements, ensuring that this beloved character continues to bring joy and connection to our local shopping experience. Sign this petition to support Amar and preserve the unique charm he brings to us all.

The Decision Makers

Marks & Spencer Corporate Office
Marks & Spencer Corporate Office
Marks & Spencer Management, Congleton
Marks & Spencer Management, Congleton

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates

Share this petition

Petition created on 24 April 2025