Primark has been a key player in the UK retail market, noted for its low-priced offerings in clothing, accessories, and home goods. However, the company reported a decline of 3.1% in like-for-like sales in its UK and Ireland stores for the year ending in September. This downturn has been attributed to a challenging consumer environment and reduced demand for winter clothing during a mild autumn.
The rise of online competitors like Shein and Vinted has prompted questions about Primark’s relevance among younger shoppers. Market-research analyst Tamara Sender-Ceron noted that Primark has not kept pace with overall market growth and faces increasing competition. Shoppers often prefer the extensive product range, lower prices, and home delivery services offered by these online retailers.
At Primark’s prominent London location, some customers expressed a preference for alternatives like Shein. Serena Milius, a regular shopper, indicated her wardrobe now comprises mostly Shein products, using Primark for selective purchases only. Conversely, some shoppers, like 23-year-old student Martha, indicated a shift towards higher-quality purchases from brands like Zara and independent stores, reserving Primark primarily for basic items.
Customer experiences at Primark varied significantly. While some found the store busy and overwhelming, others reported a satisfying shopping experience. Abbi Lily, a content creator, mentioned a perception that Primark’s prices are less attractive than before, expressing a desire for more intentional shopping focused on quality.
Primark’s operations lack a delivery option, offering only a click-and-collect service, which stands in contrast to competitors like Shein. Although Primark’s market share has increased and total global sales were up 1% over the past year, ongoing competition raises concerns about its future positioning in the retail landscape.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9wvn7d8lq4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss