For fast fashion chain Primark same store sales for the past 16 weeks were up one per cent. A greater number of shoppers are snapping up its spring and summer wares. Same store sales in the UK were stronger with a four per cent increase. Sales are expected to get a boost with new store openings in UK, US and Spain.

Primark opened a 75,000 sq ft store in the UK. Primark will continue to drive sales growth through new stores. It added 16 new stores in the period, including several UK locations plus Ireland, Germany, France, the Netherlands and the US. Primark is an Anglo-Irish chain owned by Associated British Foods.

Of Primark’s top 20 stores by sales density, 15 are now in continental Europe including seven in its newest markets of France and Italy. Primark is unique among mega-sized retailers in not selling online. Fast-selling items last year included bomber jackets, while this autumn denim jackets, colored skinny jeans and striped dresses were fast moving.

However, Primark expects same store sales to drop by one per cent for the 24 weeks to March 3. Other retailers including New Look and House of Fraser have been struggling with changing shopping habits and a decline in sales.