Primark

When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Go Shopping
So it’s been one of those limbo days, that started on a massive high, but has actually ended up going nowhere fast.
When things get challenging or just plain weird, the tough do what only the true hard nuts can do and that is… go shopping.
My favourite cut price haven is Primark or Primarche as I like to call it. I’ll admit I am addicted to the rails upon rails of cut price clothes and accessories, and don’t get me started on their lingerie and swimwear, where I regularly unearth hidden treasures.
Yes Primarche rocks, but you will need to know what the rules of engagement are for a relatively pain free visit, especially if you go to the Croydon store!
1) Pick your visiting time wisely — Too early and you’ll miss new stock. Too late and you will get caught up in the mother of all queues.
2) The clothing sizes vary by alarming proportions — Alternating between coming up too small or too big, so make sure you try everything on. If they don’t have your size, you can more than likely to be able to get away with the next size up.
3) Customer service — If you are a customer service freak, check your expectations at the door, Primark is like taking a walk on the wild side — do so at your own risk !
The general sales assistant tone varies between complete indifference to my personal favourite not knowing the stock e.g. harem pants have never and are unlikely to be «Sorta like leggings», as suggested by my hapless assistant.
4) Queuing is a way of life — I have never, ever walked into Primarche and not had to queue. Their customer base is about as diverse as it gets, due to their low prices. This popularity means the store is nearly always busy. If you are a serial sigher, or a whinger, take something along to distract you like an ipod, a friend, a magazine or a packet of Haribo !
5) In light of points 1 – 4 why would you want to set foot in Primarche ?
Simple fast, disposable fashion trends turned around in record time, for you to buy. Their clothes quality can be variable, but their bags and accessories are not to be sniffed at. That’s why I keep going back !