Primark has confirmed that four in store cafes, including one on the island of Ireland, will close over the next year.
16:37, 15 Jan 2026
Primark shoppers are being advised of upcoming changes across a small number of stores, with the retailer confirming plans to close several in store cafes over the coming year.
The budget fashion chain, which has a strong presence across the UK and in Ireland, where it retails as Penneys, is reviewing how space is used inside some of its larger stores as it continues to expand its clothing and homeware ranges.
As part of this review, Primark has confirmed that four cafe concessions are earmarked for closure, with decisions based on store size and location. One of the affected locations is on the island of Ireland, Mirror UK reports.
The update follows social media speculation suggesting cafe staff were facing redundancy, after a video circulated online appearing to show workers saying goodbye to colleagues. However, Primark has said that no staff are currently affected.
A spokesperson said: "We know how important our stores are to our customers and we're constantly reviewing them to ensure we provide the best shopping experience.
"As we've expanded our own product offering, we are adapting our spaces so that each store is best set up to cater to local customer preferences. As part of this, we have been reviewing our in-store concessions and considering how we maximise and best use the space we have in our stores.
"Over the next 12 months customers will start to see the closure of some concessions. These decisions are being informed by the size and location of each store."
Which branches are shutting?
The high street giant has said that the Primark cafe in Belfast's Royal Avenue will be among those closing their doors. The other three outlets affected are Glasgow's Braehead shopping centre, Edinburgh's Princes Street and Birmingham High Street.
Primark cafes have become popular in recent years for their themed pop up experiences, often inspired by well known films and TV shows such as The Simpsons, Stranger Things and Hello Kitty.
The spokesperson added: "As this will be managed over the next 12 months and beyond, no Primark colleagues are currently impacted.
"However, we appreciate it may impact some of our partners and we're committed to managing this process with care and transparency, supporting them throughout."
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