In a significant blow to the UK high street, retail giant Primark has confirmed it will shut the doors of one of its British stores for the first time in ten years. The affected branch in Dartford will cease trading permanently on January 3, 2025.
A Decade-First Closure for the Retailer
The closure marks a notable moment for the value fashion chain, which was first founded in 1969 and has not shut a UK store in a decade. The decision will result in staff redundancies, with colleagues preparing to leave the site. Primark has indicated that the nearest alternative stores for customers are in Bexleyheath or at the Bluewater shopping centre.
Building Repairs and Community Reaction
The primary reason cited for the shutdown is the condition of the building itself. According to Primark, the property was found to be in serious need of extensive repair work. Philippa Nibbs, Primark’s director of sales for UK South and South East, explained that undertaking these repairs was not viable, especially given the proximity of two other Primark stores.
News of the closure was shared locally in a heartfelt post on the Dartford Community Facebook group. The statement from staff read: "This next week will be a very upsetting time for all the staff, a lot of us are being made redundant so please be mindful when your moaning about nothing left in the store. THANK YOU."
The announcement has sparked a wave of dismay from local shoppers, with many expressing concerns about the future of Dartford's town centre. Comments from residents on social media included:
- “Unfortunately Dartford’s been edging towards a ghost town for a few years now.”
- “This one going, wilko‘s gone, easy coffee gone, unless something serious happens to boost it, it will soon be goodbye Dartford town centre.”
- “What? Even Primark is leaving Dartford. The town is finished.”
Support for Staff and Moving Forward
Primark has stated that it is focused on supporting the colleagues affected by the closure. The company confirmed that more than half of the staff will transfer to roles in nearby Primark stores. For those leaving the business, redundancy support is being offered.
In her statement, Philippa Nibbs added: "We understand this news will be disappointing for our local customers and we are grateful for the support of our customers and the Dartford community over the years." The closure underscores the ongoing challenges faced by traditional high streets across the UK, even for major retail players.
