Primark celebrates a significant milestone, marking 50 years since the opening of its first UK store in Derby on 26 September 1974.
- From humble beginnings in Derby, Primark has grown to 185 stores across Britain, employing over 30,000 people.
- The brand initially launched in Dublin as Penneys in 1969 by founder Arthur Ryan before expanding to the UK.
- Significant store openings include Oxford Street in 2007 and the largest store in Birmingham in 2019.
- Primark’s commitment to affordable fashion has remained steadfast, with recent investments of £100m in UK store developments.
Primark marked a remarkable journey of half a century on the British high street with the opening of its first store in Derby on 26 September 1974. Since then, the brand has expanded significantly, boasting 185 stores across the UK and employing over 30,000 individuals. This growth is a testament to its enduring appeal and strong presence in British retail.
The origins of Primark trace back to Dublin in 1969, where it opened under the name Penneys, a brand that still exists in Ireland. The UK witnessed its first store in Derby, quickly followed by new locations in Bristol and Northampton, and its first Scottish store in Hamilton by 1975. Hamilton remains the smallest UK store in the Primark portfolio.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Primark expanded rapidly, acquiring numerous stores from retailers such as C&A, BHS, and Co-op Living. A significant milestone was reached in 2005 when Primark acquired 41 new stores after taking over Littlewoods, solidifying its footprint across the UK high streets.
Primark’s expansion continued into the new millennium with the opening of the Oxford Street store in 2007. This location became a flagship destination, followed by another prominent store near Tottenham Court Road five years later. In 2019, Primark opened its largest store in Birmingham, further cementing its status as a leader in the affordable fashion sector.
In 2024, Primark demonstrated its ongoing commitment to the UK market with a £100 million investment in its stores. This includes new openings, relocations, and extensions, significantly contributing to the local economies and providing 700 new jobs. Recent activities include openings in Bury St Edmunds and Teesside, along with extensions in Gateshead and Westfield Stratford.
Primark’s dedication to affordable fashion on the British high street remains unwavering as it looks forward to future growth.
