Primark Ballymena opens this week: New 29,000 sq. ft store marks major boost for Fairhill and local retail

The countdown is almost over — Primark Ballymena will officially open its brand-new store at Fairhill Shopping Centre this Friday, 5th December at 10am, marking one of the most significant retail moments the town has seen in years.

The opening forms the centrepiece of Fairhill Shopping Centre’s ongoing £10 million redevelopment, which has transformed the site throughout 2024 and 2025 with upgraded mall spaces, improved facilities and a refreshed brand identity designed to strengthen Ballymena’s position as a leading regional shopping destination.

The move also marks the end of Primark’s long-standing residence at the Tower Centre, where the retailer has traded since 1983. The relocation — less than a mile away — ushers in what Primark describes as an “exciting new chapter” for both the store and its loyal customer base.

A Bigger, Brighter, More Modern Primark for Ballymena

The new Fairhill Primark more than doubles the size of its previous store, spanning around 29,000 sq. ft.

The result is a significantly more spacious and modern shopping environment that brings together fashion, homeware, gifting and everyday essentials on one accessible floor.

The store will employ 150 staff, including around 70 newly created jobs, delivering a welcome boost to Ballymena’s local economy.

Customers visiting from Friday can expect:

• Self-checkouts

• LED lighting and improved signage

• Contemporary shop-fit and display units

• Expanded ranges across womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, homeware and beauty

• A dedicated selection of sustainability-focused products from Primark Cares

Opening just ahead of the festive retail rush, the new store is expected to become a major Christmas shopping hotspot, with everything from seasonal home décor to Primark’s hugely popular matching “Fam Jams”.

“A very special moment” – Primark celebrates new chapter

Fintan Costello, Primark’s Head of Ireland and Northern Ireland, said the move delivers what customers have been seeking for years:

“This is a very special moment for Primark Ballymena, and one we know our customers have been waiting for. The town has been home to Primark for over 40 years, and our loyal shoppers have been asking for more space and more choice for some time.

“We’re proud to be delivering that with a brand-new concept store here in Fairhill – and just in time for Christmas, making it the perfect destination for festive shopping. We can’t wait to welcome everyone through the doors in Fairhill on 5th December to celebrate this next chapter together.”

The Ballymena upgrade forms part of Primark’s wider investment across Northern Ireland, where it now operates 10 stores, including its recently opened Primark Home Belfast — the company’s first-ever standalone homeware store.

Primark, founded in Ireland in 1969, now employs more than 80,000 people across 17 countries and operates over 470 stores worldwide.

Fairhill: “A significant milestone” for the centre’s future

The new Primark opening is a landmark moment for Fairhill Shopping Centre’s transformation. Owner Ryan Walker said excitement has been steadily growing across the town.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Primark to Fairhill. This opening marks a significant milestone and reflects our shared commitment to creating vibrant, engaging spaces for our community.

“Primark is a much-loved brand, and we’re confident it will be a fantastic addition, driving new energy and footfall. We look forward to building a strong partnership with Primark for many years to come and supporting their continued growth and success here at Fairhill.”

Primark joins a strong retail line-up at Fairhill, which already includes Marks & Spencer, Next, H&M, Superdry, JD Sports, River Island, New Look and Jack & Jones.

Footfall is expected to surge across both the shopping centre and Ballymena town centre as the new store opens just weeks before Christmas.

Opening Day: What Shoppers Need to Know

Shoppers are expected to arrive early on Friday, with doors opening at 10am sharp. Fairhill Shopping Centre is advising customers to plan ahead, allow extra time for parking and expect a busy atmosphere throughout the morning and early afternoon.

The launch represents one of the most important milestones in Fairhill’s recent history — and a major step forward for Ballymena’s ongoing retail revival.