Bolton's Primark store's opening day sees 500 shoppers queue

Primark's newest premises in Market Place, Knowsley Street, opened at 9am on Wednesday, November 27, with a live DJ and speeches from bosses at the company.

The store's first shoppers were treated to a chorus of Simply The Best by Tina Turner as they entered the fashion giant's newest shop.

One shopper, Danielle McAulay, 38, said: "I think the new store concept was brilliant, the old store wasn't big enough.

"I've been a shopper at Primark all my life and I used to shop at Bury.

"Now I'm in the new store you'll definitely be seeing me in Bolton again."  

A lady called Wendy was the Market Place store's first customer after she was the last person to be served at the previous Crompton Place Primark.

Wendy with the store's manager, Caroline Wood (Image: Primark) She said: "It's really exciting; it looks like a winter wonderland.

"The staff are so lovely as well and really help you out."

The new Primark is pioneering the use of self-serve checkouts at the brand's stores, with 12 in total at the new Bolton premise.

"I don't mind them really, they are easy to use, and you can still be served by a person at the other checkouts if you need to be," Wendy added.

Self-serve checkout (Image: Primark) All 130 store colleagues plus ten managers in Primark’s Bolton store team have moved from the former Crompton Place Shopping Centre location, which closed its doors for a final time yesterday after 48 years, as part of plans from the council to redevelop the town centre.

The new Primark Bolton measures 26,300 sq. ft and includes customers’ favourites across fashion, accessories, beauty, and lifestyle items.

Locals will also be able to spot new features including LED lighting, upgraded fixtures and fittings, and updated display units that will create a more modern shopping experience.

(Image: Primark) Mayor Andy Morgan was presentPrimark regional retail director, Neil Ford said: “It’s been a fantastic day for our Bolton store team and all the colleagues involved in bringing our brand-new location to the local community.

"We’ve been in the heart of Bolton now for 48 years so this is an important move for us, and we’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response already from shoppers who’ve joined us today.

"We can’t wait for more customers to experience the very best of Primark here in Bolton, particularly as we approach the busiest time of the year!”

(Image: Primark) Nicola Shawcroft, general manager at Market Place, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Primark to its new home at Market Place today.

"The store’s modern design and exciting features, combined with its beloved product range, are sure to delight our shoppers, especially during this festive season.

"Having such an iconic brand here enhances our fashion offering and strengthens Market Place as a key destination for the Bolton community, not just at Christmas but throughout the year.”

Mayor of Bolton Cllr Andy Morgan was at the opening.

He said: "The new store, with over £10 million investment and providing 138 jobs, is a significant boost for Bolton’s economy.

"Not only will it attract more shoppers to the town but importantly revitalise footfall in the town and benefit surrounding businesses in the Market Place Shopping Centre.

"Additionally, it will consolidate and enhance Bolton’s retail offerings, making it a more appealing destination for residents and visitors alike, which will further stimulate economic growth."