Oldest Primark store in England celebrates 50 years on Midlands high street

The oldest Primark in England - the first store opened in Derby in 1974 - is marking an important milestone this week.

Primark will be hosting an exciting event at its Derby store tomorrow (Thursday, September 26, 2024).

It marks 50 years since it opened its first store on the Great British high street in Derby.

Primark first opened its doors at Babington Lane, Derby, in 1974 and moved to the Eagle Shopping Centre for a period, before finally arriving in Cornmarket in 2008.

Primark’s arrival in Derby was significant after originally opening as Penneys in Ireland 55 years ago, in 1969.

Since then, the fashion retailer has gone on to open over 450 stores globally across 17 markets.

The store will be celebrating in style on Thursday, with entertainment throughout the day for customers and goodie bags for the first 50 shoppers through the door when the store opens.

Louise Phelps, area manager for Primark Derby, said: “We’re so proud to be celebrating such an important milestone for Primark, right here in Derby.

“It’s fantastic to have an opportunity to bring together our colleagues and customers – past and present – to share this milestone within the local community.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible in our Derby store on Thursday!”

It comes as Primark recently announced Derby as one of the next 54 stores to soon offer its popular Click & Collect service before the end of the year.

Customers will soon be able to enjoy access to over 3,000 items across women’s, men’s, children’s clothing and accessories, as well as selected homeware items and various online exclusives.

For more information about Primark Derby click here.