M&S launches size 18 school uniforms to cater for obesity

Here at Beer belly we always stay abreast of the new health stories. We offer advice and raise awareness for everything from health and fitness to diet and nutrition. A recent story within the daily mail was alarming.

Marks and Spencers the high street brand has recently introduced size 18 uniforms to cater for the growing obesity epidemic which seems to have taken all our children by storm.
Marks & Spencer has introduced above-average sizes for children as young as three after parents raised awareness that these sizes were actually needed for their children. Supply and demand always dictates the retail industry and the demand for the oversized black trousers has been overwhelming since they were launched mid June.

Most sizes have now been sold out. M&S actually call the range a plus fit range, another shocking mention of the underlying problem which lies ahead. M&S’s Plus Fit range is available on its website and is aimed at all children within the school system spanning from as young as 3 right up to GCSE 16 year olds.

Blazers and trousers are in stock for four-year-olds with waistlines of up to 23in with the average adult wearing 34 inch trousers. This size is usually worn by eight year old children.. In girls’ clothes, garments go up to the same size as an adult size 18.

Another stunning statistic given by the article is that one in four children are now classed as overweight by the time they start primary school.

Can we blame M&S?

Marks and spencers are a retail giant who are merely catering for the demand. They have had numerous conversations with customers whose desires are to have these sizes for their children. If the demand is there then somebody needs to supply this. The proof is also evident within the sales as they have already sold out of most sizes. Shocking statistic.

What can the readers of Beer belly do?
It’s an interesting one to be posted here at Beer belly but one I think its necessary. Beer Belly was initially aimed at the everyday male population trying to do weight. In a degree it still maintains that stance however these articles are a shock to the system of all of us. Our eating habits, our mindset and our exercise regime are imitated by our children. This may be subliminally but all our actions and the advice we give is directed towards our children.

The underlying issue with the current obesity rate must sit with the parents and those who teach the children what eating habits are right and wrong. Beer Belly can give advice but it cant make any of our readers do anything to change their mindset. That’s up to them.

By promoting healthy living and decreases of drinking and junk food to the adult population this should cascade and change the mind set they pass onto their children. I think this recent study is a stark warning of what the actions of you as a parent and an adult can do to the younger generation. The more constructive advice we give now and the more changes put into action can ultimately shape the future not only for ourselves but for our children.

Lets try get rid of the plus size clothing for adults and children sooner rather than later.

Thanks for reading,

Beer Belly Ryan

To read the full story click here

Sources:

Daily Mail
Organic Authority (image)