Global fashion retailer Primark has officially entered the Middle East market, opening its first store in Kuwait at Grand Plaza, The Avenues Mall, in partnership with regional retail powerhouse Alshaya Group.
The new outlet, spanning 60,000 square feet over two floors, marks Primark’s first franchise store and its 18th international market entry, employing over 350 staff. The launch reflects Primark’s broader global expansion strategy as it continues to strengthen its footprint across major retail hubs.
A New Chapter for Primark in the Gulf
Primark’s entry into Kuwait is a landmark step for the company, which operates as Penneys in Ireland. The retailer and Alshaya Group also announced plans to open three additional stores in Dubai in 2026, beginning with Dubai Mall in March, followed by City Centre Mirdif and Mall of the Emirates later in the year.
Both companies confirmed they are exploring opportunities to expand further across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets, signaling long-term confidence in the region’s retail growth potential.
Leadership Statements
Eoin Tonge, Primark’s Interim CEO, described the launch as a milestone moment:
“Kuwait marks our first franchise market and our 18th international market globally, which we are delighted to open in partnership with Alshaya Group. With the strength of our brand and distinctive value proposition, combined with Alshaya’s deep market expertise, this represents an exciting new growth chapter.”
John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, echoed the enthusiasm:
“Since announcing our partnership a year ago, we’ve worked tirelessly to bring Primark to our customers here in Kuwait. Today marks the beginning of introducing one of the world’s most anticipated retail brands to shoppers across the region.”
Global Momentum
The Kuwait launch comes as Primark celebrates a decade in the U.S. market and prepares to open its flagship Manhattan store in 2026. With more than 475 stores across 18 countries, Primark continues to scale its value fashion offering globally, combining affordable pricing with trend-driven apparel.
The brand’s arrival in the Middle East — one of the world’s fastest-growing retail regions — underscores its ambition to become a global fashion destination, while leveraging Alshaya’s extensive retail infrastructure and local expertise.
