Primark to open in County Square Ashford

County Square has today announced that Primark plans to open a new store in the centre, expected to open in the second half of 2027. 

Primark will take on the former Debenhams and Select units as its new home, which will be merged to form one large 29,000 sq. ft. retail space, spanning almost half of the upper oval. Project work will shortly commence to configure the unit, so it is ready for fit-out.

The new store will offer customers Primark’s most-loved ranges across fashion, kidswear, beauty, lifestyle and home, plus its popular Click & Collect service. Primark will join over 45 stores in County Square, including established fashion brands such as New Look and Next.

Kari Rodgers, UK Retail Director at Primark said: “We know there’s been a lot of demand for us to bring Primark to Ashford, so we’re pleased to confirm plans to open in County Square later next year. With the demand for great value clothing higher than ever, we’re looking forward to bringing our offer to the town and becoming part of the local community.”

Stacey Bell, Centre Manager, commented: “We are thrilled that County Square will be the new home for Primark in Ashford. The brand’s arrival is a fantastic boost for the shopping centre, providing more choice of fashion, beauty and homeware for shoppers whilst supporting and creating jobs for our local community.

We are working hard behind the scenes to transform the space ready for fit-out and opening next year. We predict the new store will also attract shoppers to County Square from further afield and are confident Primark’s opening and presence will strengthen our vibrant retail mix. The highly anticipated announcement marks another chapter in County Square’s rich history and our ongoing commitment to creating a destination shopping venue for the town centre.”

Ashford Borough Council’s (ABC) portfolio holder for the town centre, Cllr Heather Hayward, says Primark’s arrival has been years in the making.

“I am delighted to welcome Primark to Ashford and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have for years to come. The arrival of Primark in the town centre is fantastic news for our residents, visitors and local businesses. This investment is a major vote of confidence in Ashford's future and will help strengthen us as a retail destination.

”This achievement has not happened by chance. It is the result of considerable lobbying, partnership working and determination behind the scenes. I would like to recognise the hard work of the County Square's team, our local MP Sojan Joseph, and officers at ABC - all of whom have worked tirelessly over a number of years to help bring a retailer of Primark's calibre to Ashford.

”Primark's arrival will increase footfall, create new employment opportunities and generate additional spending that will benefit businesses across the town centre.”

During the project, the centre will keep customers up to date via social media channels and monthly newsletters with the opening date expected to be announced at a later stage.