Easter Sunday brings a break for both staff and customers as Primark has confirmed the closure of all 190 of its UK stores on April 5, 2026. For the first time in recent years, the popular clothing retailer will shut its doors across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This move is in accordance with the Sunday Trading Act 1994, which mandates the closure of large retail stores on Easter Sunday. However, the company’s stores in Scotland will remain open, continuing to serve shoppers on the busy holiday weekend.
Primark’s Planned Easter Closure
In a significant move for UK retail, Primark is taking the Easter holiday seriously by closing all of its UK stores on Easter Sunday. The retailer, known for its budget-friendly fashion and expansive stores, has around 190 locations across the country. This includes over 160 stores in England alone. The decision, which will see every store in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland shut for the day, was officially confirmed by the company. This closure comes as part of Primark’s adherence to the Sunday Trading Act 1994, which requires that shops over 280 square meters must remain closed on Easter Sunday.
Primark’s closure announcement has made waves, especially among customers who are used to the brand’s accessibility. With many stores open throughout the Easter weekend, shoppers can still expect a full range of retail options – but only on Good Friday and Easter Saturday.
As reported by The Mirror, a Primark spokesperson clarified:
“Primark stores across the UK will be open across the Easter weekend, however on Easter Sunday only stores in Scotland will be open and all stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will be closed. Stores may also be operating different hours to normal, so we recommend that customers check our website for their local store opening times before visiting to avoid disappointment.”
This is not the first time large retailers have closed their doors for the Easter Sunday holiday. Many businesses follow similar guidelines due to legal restrictions, while others choose to close in observance of the holiday. For Primark, this move reflects a company-wide commitment to ensure its staff receives a much-needed break, while still providing customers ample opportunities to shop before and after the holiday.
Why Are Primark Stores Closing on Easter Sunday?
Primark’s decision to close on Easter Sunday ties back to the Sunday Trading Act of 1994, which places restrictions on large stores. The law mandates that any retail establishment larger than 280 square meters must close on Easter Sunday unless it is located in specific locations such as airports, service stations, or smaller, independent shops.
The law was originally put in place to allow retail workers to rest on holidays, ensuring that people working in larger stores could enjoy the Easter holiday with their families. While the closure is a legal requirement for stores in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, there is a significant difference in Scotland.
Scotland is not bound by the Sunday Trading Act, meaning businesses there are free to remain open. As a result, all of Primark’s stores in Scotland will remain operational on Easter Sunday. This distinction has sparked some confusion among UK shoppers, but Primark is ensuring customers are informed by advising them to check local store hours before visiting.
What Does This Mean for Primark Shoppers?
For loyal Primark customers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this Easter Sunday closure will be a rare inconvenience. With most stores offering vast selections of affordable clothing, many shoppers depend on Primark for last-minute purchases or essential items.
Shoppers will need to plan ahead for the Easter weekend, with Good Friday and Easter Saturday remaining the main days to shop. The company has warned that some stores may operate under adjusted hours over the weekend, adding another layer of unpredictability to shopping plans. Customers are encouraged to check Primark’s website for the specific opening hours of their local branch.
Despite the closure, Primark’s return to regular trading on Monday means it won’t be long before shoppers can head back to the stores. The retailer’s expansive selection of affordable fashion will undoubtedly be available in full force following the brief hiatus.
