Huge queues as Primark and Sports Direct stores reopen across the West Country

The queue outside Primark in Bristol city centre. Credit: Bristol Live

Huge queues have formed outside Primark and Sports Direct stores across the West Country as the Government lifts restrictions for non-essential businesses.

Hundreds of shoppers were seen waiting outside stores in Bristol, Cheltenham, Plymouth and Taunton earlier this morning (15 June).

It comes as department stores and shopping centres, including The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, Cabot Circus in Bristol, Regent Arcade in Cheltenham and Gloucester Quays, reopen following months of closure.

Shoppers waiting to enter the store. Credit: Bristol Live

  • We asked shoppers in Taunton what they thought:

In Cheltenham - where Primark is on the High Street at Boots Corner - the queue stretched all the way up North Street beyond the job centre while in Bristol, queues extended all the way along the Horsefair.

Primark employees were on hand to direct shoppers and ensure social distancing was adhered to.

Prior to reopening, Primark CEO Paul Marchant said staff had “worked hard” to make their stores safe for customers.

He said: "We have really missed our customers and we are delighted to be back on 15 June and able to provide them with the quality, affordable products they love from Primark.

"While it might take a little longer to get into store, once inside, customers will find all their favourite Primark products and plenty of choice as usual."

Lines were also seen stretching up the high street outside for Sports Direct in Exeter, where hundreds of shoppers patiently queued to get inside.

Shoppers were seen all the way up the high street in Exeter waiting to get into shops that had opened today.

  • Dr Zoe Williams explains how best to stay safe while shopping: