Primark not set to trial online shopping, contrary to reports

A spokesperson says the retailer considers click-and-collect options 'from time to time'

If you’ve always dreamed of buying the latest "must-have" item from Primark online, you might have been elated to see reports of this becoming an imminent possibility.

However, we're sorry to tell you, the dream is no closer to become a reality after all.

Despite reports that Primark is set to trial online shopping, the Irish retailer has revealed that no such plans are currently in place.

On Tuesday, several publications reported that a click-and-collect initiative is “on the horizon” for the retailer following a recent report published from financial management company Davy.

According to The Sun, Davy reported that Primark's chief executive Paul Marchant told a group of analysts earlier this month that they would be looking into launching the service.

Davy reportedly added that a click-and-collect is “on the horizon”, adding that “even when rolled out, a click-and-collect offering will only drive an incremental benefit for Primark”.

However, a Primark spokesperson tells The Independent that while the internet is an important platform for the retailer, online shopping is not currently on the cards.

“We have a strong digital and a rapidly growing social media presence, with currently 14 million followers. Our customers enjoy looking online at the latest offers, and coming into stores to buy," the spokesperson says.

“From time to time we will look at click-and-collect as one possible option to extend our customer service. However, there are no plans in the near future to trial click and collect.”

The statement will come as a disappointment to Primark fans who have regularly expressed their wish for an online shopping option from the retailer over the years.

“What kind of world do we live in where we can’t even order online from Primark or click and collect,” wrote one shopper earlier this year.

“@Primark online shop? Click and collect? Too lazy to come and find the top I want that I know you sell,” tweeted another in 2017.

Earlier this month, one customer – who goes by the Twitter handle @rhian79060716 – tweeted: “It’s 2019... we can find water sources on different planets, yet @Primark don’t do click and collect. Absolute scandal [sic]”

In response to the post, a representative from Primark tweeted: “Hi Rhian, we don't offer online shopping as we are focused on bringing you amazing prices at our stores.”

Earlier this month, the retailer opened its new flagship shop in Birmingham, which is now home to a Disney-inspired cafe, restaurant, and beauty studio.

The shop, which is Primark largest store to date and its 187th in the UK, spans five floors across 160,000 sq ft.

The Independent has reached out to Davy for comment.