Primark Shuts Dartford Store, First Closure in a Decade

Primark has announced the permanent closure of its Dartford store on January 3, 2024, marking the first time in ten years that a location has shut down. The decision comes as a significant blow to the local high street, where the store has long been a popular destination for shoppers. Staff members are now preparing for redundancy as the store ceases operations.

The closure has left customers searching for alternatives, with the nearest Primark branches now located in Bexleyheath or Bluewater. According to a statement shared on the Dartford Community Facebook group, the announcement has generated considerable disappointment among locals. The message emphasized the emotional toll on employees, noting, “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 you’re moaning about nothing left in the store. THANK YOU.”

Local residents have voiced their concerns about the declining state of Dartford town. One community member remarked, “Unfortunately Dartford’s been edging towards a ghost town for a few years now.” Another expressed dismay, saying, “This one going, Wilko’s gone, Easy Coffee is gone. Unless something serious happens to boost it, it will soon be goodbye Dartford town centre.”

The decision to close the store was influenced by the building’s deteriorating condition. As outlined by Philippa Nibbs, Primark’s Director of Sales for the UK South and South East, the necessary repairs to the site were deemed extensive and not feasible, especially given the proximity to two other Primark locations. Nibbs stated, “This difficult decision was informed by the extensive repair work required to the building, which, given the close proximity to two other Primark stores, is just not viable.”

In a positive note, Primark confirmed that over half of the affected employees will be offered positions at nearby stores, while measures are being put in place to assist those departing the company. 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.”

Primark, a staple of the British high street, celebrated its 50th anniversary in September 2024, marking five decades since the opening of its first store in Derby. The closure of the Dartford branch raises questions about the future of retail in the town, as community members worry about the ongoing challenges facing local businesses.