Bury St Edmunds Primark welcomes first customers ahead of its official opening

A town’s highly anticipated Primark welcomed its first customers tonight ahead of its official opening.

A long queue formed outside the new store in the arc Shopping Centre for the friends and family VIP event.

The new 33,300 sq. ft store, which is on the ground and first floors of the former Debenhams, is officially due to open at 10am on Wednesday.

First in the queue were Daisy and Bianca Darcy-Jones, Stephanie Hales, Kirsty and Ruby Jackson and Brooke Pearson.

Ruby said: “I’m very excited. I can’t wait to shop.

“I’m looking forward to finding the golden ticket. They’re discounted vouchers which are hidden around the shop.”

Stephanie said: “Hopefully, it’s not chocolate but some money.”

Behind them, were Quitia and Ellis Greer and J-naya Fairley.

Quitia said: “I’m buzzing. I don’t have to go to Cambridge or Norwich anymore.

“Hopefully, it will bring more people in and it will make the town more busy.”

Ellis said: “I’m just looking for some work trousers.

“Hopefully this brings in a more variety of clothes without having to spend a fortune.

“For a man, there is not a lot of men’s clothing shops here so I’m excited”

Having created more than 100 jobs, Primark’s investment in the town follows demand from shoppers across West Suffolk with thousands joining the Primark for Bury St Edmunds Facebook group.

On opening day, there will be a live DJ.

Transformation works have been under way for more than a year at the former Debenhams, with the inside remodelled, new doors fitted and signs installed.

The firm confirmed in November 2022 that it would open the Bury branch.