Primark to keep 11 stores open 24 hours a day once lockdown lifts

Non-essential retail to reopen in England from 2 December

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Primark has confirmed it will be keeping 11 of its shops in England open for 24 hours a day once lockdown lifts and the country returns to a three-tier system on 2 December.

The discount retailer has also said it will extend its opening hours for its remaining stores to allow shoppers more time to do their Christmas shopping, with branches open until at least 8pm on weekdays.

Meanwhile, outlets in shopping centres will remain open until 10pm, with a select few staying open until midnight.

The Primark stores that will be staying open 24/7 are: Trafford, York Monks Cross, Leeds White Rose, Bluewater, Lakeside, Birmingham Fort, Meadowhall, Stratford, White City, Charleton, and Gateshead Metrocentre.

Paul Marchant, chief executive at Primark, said: “We are delighted to re-open our stores in England on 2 December, with longer shopping hours to give our customers more time to safely do their festive shopping.

"We have everything this season that our customers expect from Primark, including our famous Christmas jumpers, festive pyjamas and much, much more."

All non-essential retail will be able to reopen in England once lockdown lifts.

Additionally, indoor and outdoor markets and car boot sales will be permitted to operate.

However, all businesses and venues that will reopen are expected to follow Covid-19 secure guidelines to protect customers, visitors and workers. 

Speaking about the new tier system on Thursday, Boris Johnson said: "These tougher tiers strike a balance – they are sufficient to continue driving the virus downwards but it’s important to recognise they are less intrusive than the current national measures.

“In all tiers, shops, gyms and the leisure sector, hairdressers, other forms of personal care, places of worship will reopen.”