PRIMARK should move into the old Debenhams store after announcing they were looking to expand the business.

Bosses at Primark owner Associated British Foods (ABF) have said they plan to open more stores after hailing a "good" sales performance by the fashion retailer "in the face of continued disruption" during the pandemic.

It came as ABF posted marginally lower profits for the past year as a dip in sales at Primark due to trading restrictions was offset by "strong" sales in its food business.

ABF told investors that its adjusted pre-tax profits fell by 1% to £908 million for the year to September 18, as revenues stayed broadly flat at £13.88 billion.

Primark revealed that like-for-like sales dropped by 12% against pre-pandemic levels, as it continued to be impacted by store restrictions across regions, particularly at the start of 2021.

Mrs D L Long said: "The old Debenhams store would be perfect for Primark to move right into. Fingers crossed!"

Angus MeCoatup said: "Primark will never come to Barrow, not enough trade. Primark is to cloths what Burger King is to cordon bleu food."

claphamomnibus said: "Great timing Associated British Foods, right in the middle of COP26 where the problem of rampant consumerism is front and centre they go and announce business as usual.

"Perhaps they will switch to bags for life - that will solve the climate crisis problem."

Not The Nine O'clock News said: "Get Primark into the empty Debenhams store, it would be huge for the town."

ABF said its confidence in Primark's model - which does not operate online despite soaring sales across online retail during the pandemic - remains "unaltered" and stressed its commitment to bricks and mortar retail.

The company said it expects Primark to increase sales "significantly" next year and continue to improve profits.