Birmingham Primark: Hundreds gather at opening of chain's biggest store in the world
The world’s biggest Primark has opened its doors in Birmingham, featuring water fountains, charging points and recycling areas.
Around 300 shoppers, some who arrived as early as 6am, queued up to enter the outsize store, which opened up 12 minutes early at 9.48am on Thursday.
A short power cut temporarily brought the store’s escalators to a halt and caused lighting to flicker on and off before normal service resumed.
The five-floor building has three food venues, including a Disney-themed cafe, a Disney shopping area, beauty studio and Hogwarts Wizarding World section.
Spanning 160,000 square feet, it is the biggest of the high street retailer’s 365 stores across Europe and the United States.
The store will also offer customers the opportunity to donate pre-loved clothes and shoes – of any brand – for recycling.
And for anyone wanting something a bit more bespoke, a custom lab will print personalised T-shirts and other clothes.
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Primark’s director of new business development, Tim Kelly said: “Our customers can expect a great experience at Primark Birmingham High Street.
“They can spend time with friends and family, eat great food, recharge and have fun, and find everything under one roof including fashion, beauty and homewear – all at an amazing price.
“We’re proud to bring this great store and everything it has to offer, to Birmingham.”
The store will employ more than 1,000 people, and has seen 500 new jobs created.