‘It feels like we are at a concert’ – Shoppers rave about new Primark opening

The clothing giant, celebrating its 50th anniversary, has now completed its move across the city centre from the Kirkgate Centre, where it has stood for 18 years.

All 174 employees, including 13 managers, have transferred across to the new 40,000 sq. ft two-floor store which will offer customers’ favourites across fashion, accessories, beauty, lifestyle, and homeware items.

Shoppers flocked to the new store as early as 8am this morning before its opening around two hours later.

The store was nice and busy on Tuesday morning (Image: Newsquest) The line stretched all the way to the entrance doors on Well Street as customers braved the rainy weather to catch a glimpse of the new retailer.

A live DJ and cheering Primark staff gave them a warm welcome.

Employees are given a speech from Craig Wood, area manager for South and West Yorkshire (Image: Newsquest) Best friends Connor Wroe and Aidan North, both 22, were the first ones to enter and the pair from Holme Wood really enjoyed their morning.

Connor said: “We were the first ones here.

“We arrived at 8am then joined the queue when it opened at half past eight.

“We are always there if there is a new opening, it was the same for the HMV.

Connor Wroe (right) and Aidan North were the first ones in the queue (Image: Newsquest) “We really enjoyed the atmosphere. With everyone cheering, it felt like you had achieved something.

“It was nice to go in after lining up for so long.”

Mother and daughter Kelly and Phoebe Hildreth, of Idle, also thought it was a “brilliant experience”.

Kelly said: “We had been queuing for 50 minutes before it opened. It was definitely worth it.

Kelly and Phoebe Hildreth will be coming back (Image: Newsquest) “It was nicely spaced out and felt much more modern than the Kirkgate store.

“I got some furry leggings for my other daughter and she (Phoebe) got a new set.

“I am not usually a Primark person but after today I will certainly be back.”

Wendy Steer was in the queue with her daughters – one of whom is pregnant, so baby clothes were the order of the day.

She said: “I shop a lot at Primark. I loved the Kirkgate market one but think this one will be even better.

Wendy (pictured on the far right) and her daughters, loved the grand opening (Image: Newsquest) “It feels like we are at a concert with all this security.

“We have seen all the staff dancing and we want to join them!”

Sam Meem attended the event with her husband Atik Rahman.

The care home worker had only just finished her night shift but did not want to miss the grand opening.

Sam Meen (left) had only just finished her night shift (Image: Newsquest) Sam said: “I like coming to Primark

“I have only just finished my night shift but I only live two minutes away so thought I could not miss it.”

The queues were pretty long (Image: Newsquest) Work buddies Vicky Fuller and Darcy Eastell said: “We didn’t expect it to be this busy.

“We can’t wait to go in – it will be much better than Debenhams.”

Nab Wood resident Amy Taylor, who popped down with her two-year-old daughter Olive, said: “Primark will be nicer in The Broadway.

“I have seen products on Instagram that I am keen to buy today.”