Marks & Spencer Investigates After BDS Stickers Found on Israeli Potato Packaging

British retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) has launched an investigation after stickers bearing the slogan "Boycott Israeli Apartheid" were found on packaging of potatoes imported from Israel. The incident came to light following a complaint from UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI), who urged M&S to examine the circumstances and prevent similar occurrences. A customer discovered the stickers on a 1.5 kg pack of Maris Piper potatoes labeled as originating from Israel. The stickers, linked to the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, called for a boycott of "Israeli apartheid" and included the organization's website.

In a letter dated July 11, 2026, UKLFI addressed M&S CEO Stuart Machin, stating that unauthorized sticker placement could constitute illegal interference with products. The organization requested M&S to investigate, instruct staff to remain vigilant regarding Israeli or kosher products, and report any suspicious activity to the police. An M&S spokesperson confirmed ongoing product inspections and said employees would be alert to any tampering. They acknowledged that despite these checks, one product appeared to have been altered without the company’s knowledge.

The incident was reported to the manager of the Worthing branch, who will investigate and share relevant information with authorities as requested by UKLFI. A UKLFI representative emphasized that political activists have no right to interfere with supermarket products to intimidate customers or harm Israeli trade. They praised M&S for promptly investigating and cooperating with law enforcement, urging stores to remain vigilant and act decisively against such interference.