Two of the largest and most-visited stores in Oxford Circus are Topshop and Primark. If you don’t have much time to shop and have never been to either store, you will want to know the main differences between the two. There are hundreds of Topshop and Primark locations around the U.K. and the world, but these observations are based on the London Oxford Street stores (two Primark stores are on Oxford Street, but this information is relevant for both of them). Although the stores sell similar items, they remain two separate entities, rather than merging into one huge clothing super-center – here’s how:
One of Primark's entrances displays mannequins with clear price markings on its clothes - a sign that you can purchase stylish clothes for an affordable price.
PRICE
The main difference between the two megastores is price level. For example, women’s shirts in Primark are sold for as low as under 2 pounds, while in Topshop, the lowest quality shirts are often no less than 10 pounds each. A denim jacket in Topshop with no patchwork costs 70 pounds, and a denim jacket in Primark costs 15 pounds. No matter how big your budget is, both stores offer a 10% discount for students who present their student ID at checkout.
A rainbow of shades of Vans sneakers are displayed in Topshop in front of a wall that changes colors.
QUALITY
Generally, across both stores, the rule of higher price meaning higher quality applies. The goods sold in Primark are simply not as high quality as those in Topshop. If you pick up a sweater in Primark, it may be a bargain, but it will most likely not be made of cashmere. That’s not to say that every item in Topshop will last a lifetime, or every item in Primark will come apart after three washes. Just know what to expect when walking into each store.
At Primark, the quality of shoes is not as high as that of Topshop. Primark only uses a few sub-brands like Atmosphere, while Topshop sells name brand items like Steve Madden.
STYLE/ASSORTMENT
The clothing in Topshop is definitely more on-trend than the clothing in Primark. More variety exists among more items. Topshop tends to provide more color options for basic things like tank tops, but the more high-end the item, the more unique it probably is. You are more likely to find an item that no one else has in Topshop. Check out some of this season’s Topshop designers here.
Primark tends to only offer a small amount of color/pattern options among its items, whether that be makeup bag prints or denim colors. Since Primark is generally cheaper, you probably won’t be the only person in London wearing whatever item you buy. But if that doesn’t matter to you, and you are looking for basic, affordable clothing, definitely check out Primark!
In the Peekaboo Vintage section of Topshop, a specific style is highlighted, catering to a distinct type of customer. Denim skirts with a rugged look and kimonos with intricate designs hang on the same shelf, creating a trendy and unique juxtaposition.
CLEANLINESS/ACCESSIBILITY
One thing you shouldn’t expect from Primark is cleanliness. A lot of the shelves and even floors are cluttered. It’s obviously because customers leave a mess, not the staff; but there seems to be an inefficiency regarding organization. Items aren’t hard to find – if you’re looking for boots, they will most likely be in the shoe section. But not everything is always exactly where it should be in Primark. If you can’t stand messy stores, Topshop might be a better option. If a customer puts something back in the wrong place, chances are an employee will find it within minutes and move it back to its intended space. This helps add to a more relaxing shopping experience.
Beach towels left unfolded in Primark. Small things like this make shopping at Primark more of a burden.
You shouldn’t skip one store to see the other; each has its own pros and cons. Depending on your style, budget, and what you’re shopping for, you can find items that suit your needs in both stores, since they both sell similar goods. Happy shopping!
