A MUCH longed for shop in the Old George Mall finally opened its doors today giving a sneak preview of an extensive range. 

Media and guests received a guided tour around the 29,700 square foot store which marks a £6 million investment, 100 new jobs, and marks the company’s first store in England for more than two years.  

New store manager Christopher Carter said: “The wait is finally over! From my days as a department manager in the Bournemouth store, to now leading the team opening Primark Salisbury, this is an exciting moment in my Primark career, and I am thrilled that we are now officially open.

“I’m extremely proud of everyone who has played a part in bringing this store to life, and I can’t wait for our Salisbury customers to see what we have in store for them.”

Salisbury Journal: New Primark store opens in Salisbury by Spencer MulhollandNew Primark store opens in Salisbury by Spencer Mulholland (Image: Spencer Mulholland)

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The former British Home Stores (BHS) retail outlet spread over two floors has become a light, airy space filled with colour, fabrics, and accessories and there is a men’s, women’s, and children’s range along with make-up, luggage, bags, and home accessories.

Even the changing rooms have been carefully planned to allow maximum comfort.

UK retail director Kari Rodgers said: “Today marks an important milestone for Primark as we open our first store in England in more than two years - our 192nd store in the UK.

Salisbury Journal: New Primark store opens in Salisbury

“We made a commitment to invest £140 million in our UK store estate to help create stores that customers want to spend time and bring shoppers back to the high street and I’m delighted to see this store open as part of that commitment. We hope that this store will excite and delight Salisbury residents and visitors alike.”

Primark has teamed up with global superstar and style icon Rita Ora who is a life-long Primark fan to launch a new multi-season fashion collaboration which was co-designed by Primark and Rita alongside London-based designer Jawara Alleyne and Rita’s style Pippa Atkinson.

The new range is available from Tuesday, September 19.

The store officially opens to the public at 10am on Wednesday, September 13.