Following major expansion in Italy last year, Primark’s European expansion programme continues apace as the value fashion/lifestyle retailer intends to now grow operations in Romania.

Four new stores have so far been confirmed to open in Sibiu and Bacău, joining planned openings in Iași and Craiova, doubling its presence to eight in the market and creating over 450 new jobs.

The announcement comes as the company celebrates its anniversary in the market this week, marking three years since the opening of its first Romanian store in ParkLake Shopping Centre, Bucharest.

The new stores will be located in Sibiu Shopping Centre and Arena Mall Bacău, joining previously announced locations in Electroputere Mall, Craiova and Palas Mall Iași, adding a total of 10,870 sq m of retail space across the country.

They join the four “successful” stores in the market: two in Bucharest, one in Timișoara and one in Cluj-Napoca.

The stores in new regions will introduce Primark’s latest fashion pieces, as well as everyday essentials across clothing, beauty, lifestyle and home categories. The stores will also stock the growing Primark Cares range.

Maciej Podwojski, Head of CEE, Primark said: “Since opening our first store just three years ago, we have grown a strong business with a loyal and ever-expanding customer base. As a retailer with a strong focus on physical stores, we know that much of this success is thanks to our exceptional retail teams.”

Last year, Primark announcing a further €40 million (£34 million) investment with five new Italian stores planned for Rome, Biella, Perugia and two in Naples, following a €50 million investment in the country in 2023.