Sales at fashion powerhouse Primark have been “very strong” after stores reopened following national lockdowns, parent ABF reported.
Primark shops in Belgium, France, England and the Republic of Ireland have all opened in the last week.
ABF said: ”Sales in the days since reopening in each of these markets have once again been very strong, reflecting the excitement and appeal of the Primark offering.
”We have extended the opening hours during this festive season in most of our stores in the Republic of Ireland and England to cater for the anticipated higher customer demand and to help ensure a safer environment by spreading shopping hours over a longer period.”
The retailer said that across all of its markets 34 stores are still temporarily closed, including those in Northern Ireland and Austria. That equates to 7% of Primark’s total selling space versus 62% when the highest number of stores were closed in November.
Lost sales are estimated at about £430m. Primark’s operating costs at closed stores fell by 25% during the latest lockdowns, while all orders placed with suppliers were honoured.
ABF said: ”Notwithstanding the currently announced periods of restriction, we continue to expect Primark sales and profit to be higher this financial year compared to last. We will continue to expand retail selling space.”
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