In the 16-week period to 20 June 2026, Primark said new store openings contributed 5 percentage points to growth, in a trading update published today (1 July 2026).
However, like-for-like sales declined 2.2% across the period, reflecting a challenging consumer environment in most of its key markets.
UK sales grew 1% in the quarter, but like-for-like sales were broadly flat.
It said consumer confidence remained weak across continental Europe, where total sales fell 1% and like-for-like sales declined 3.6%.
The US delivered sales growth of 16%, supported by three new store openings the retailer said, bringing the total estate in the territory to 41 stores.
Primark’s first Manhattan store opened in May and “traded strongly”. It is expected to drive broader brand awareness.
The franchise business, comprising three stores in Dubai and one in Kuwait, also performed well despite the challenging regional backdrop.
Full-year guidance remains unchanged. Primark continues to expect an adjusted operating profit margin of around 10% for 2026.
In June, Primark appointed Ingka Group deputy chief financial officer Lucy Slinger as its new CFO, as the value retailer strengthens its leadership team under new CEO Eoin Tonge. She is set to join the business in September.
In April, Associated British Foods (ABF) confirmed its decision to spin off Primark into a separately listed business, as the Dublin-based value retailer reported a double-digit decline in interim profits amid continued investment and a challenging consumer backdrop.
The demerger is targeted to complete before the end of the 2027 calendar year.
