Primark announces date of much-anticipated newest Northern Ireland store in Ballymena's Fairhill Shopping Centre
Primark has announced the opening date of its newest Northern Ireland store.
The much-anticipated new store in Fairhill Shopping Centre in Ballymena, will open to the public on Friday, December 5 at 10am.
The move marks a new chapter for the retailer in Northern Ireland, which first opened its doors in Ballymena in 1983.
Relocating less than a mile from its original home in the Tower Centre, the new store will double in size, spanning 26,200 sq. ft of fashion and everyday essentials all on one floor.
The new Primark is one of the largest and most eagerly awaited additions to Fairhill, forming part of the centre’s £10 million investment programme that has transformed the shopping destination throughout 2024 and 2025.
The retailer’s arrival is the centrepiece of a comprehensive redevelopment project that has seen major updates in Fairhill, including refreshed mall areas, enhanced customer facilities, and a new brand identity designed to attract leading brands to Ballymena.
The store will employ 150 people in total, with approximately 70 new jobs created to support the bigger store, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
Primark said shoppers can expect a fresh, modern layout in a bigger and better store, with features like self-checkouts, modern fixtures and fittings, improved signage and LED lighting, as well as new display units to better showcase products.
"With more space across key departments, customers will enjoy an expanded range of fashion, accessories and homeware, alongside Primark’s great everyday value essentials,” the retailer said.
"Opening just in time for Christmas, Ballymena shoppers will be able to pick up all their festive favourites - from home décor and last-minute gifting to matching festive Fam Jams for everyone.”
Fintan Costello, Head of Primark Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “This is a very special moment for Primark Ballymena, and one we know our customers have been waiting for.
"The town has been home to Primark for over 40 years, and our loyal shoppers have been asking for more space and more choice for some time. We’re proud to be delivering that with a brand-new concept store here in Fairhill – and just in time for Christmas, making it the perfect destination for festive shopping.
"We can’t wait to welcome everyone through the doors in Fairhill on December 5 to celebrate this next chapter together.”
Ryan Walker, owner of Fairhill Shopping Centre, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Primark to Fairhill. This opening marks a significant milestone and reflects our shared commitment to creating vibrant, engaging spaces for our community.
"Primark is a much-loved brand, and we’re confident it will be a fantastic addition, driving new energy and footfall. We look forward to building a strong partnership with Primark for many years to come and supporting their continued growth and success here at Fairhill.”
The addition of Primark to Fairhill will further strengthen the centre’s already strong fashion offering with brands including Marks & Spencer, Next, H&M, Superdry, JD Sports, River Island, Jack & Jones and New Look.
Primark Ballymena’s relocation is the latest milestone in the retailer’s investment across Northern Ireland, where it now operates 10 stores including Belfast, Craigavon, Derry~Londonderry, Lisburn, Newtownabbey, Newtownards, Newry, and Omagh.
Earlier this year, Primark launched Primark Home in Belfast, its first-ever standalone homeware store and a world first for the brand.