Manchester's massive new Uniqlo shop has opened its doors and shoppers can't get enough of it.
Hundreds of customers were queuing outside the former BHS unit on Market Street to be the first inside when it opened yesterday and it was swarmed with shoppers all day.
Japanese Taiko drummers noisily heralded the return of the Tokyo-based brand to the Manchester high street for the first time in over 15 years, and there'll be more in-store celebrations over what's expected to be a busy weekend.
Queues are a common sight when the brand opens shops in new markets - or returns to them, in Manchester's case - but what makes it so popular?
The brand's biggest appeal is its affordable, quality basics and inside, shelves are stacked to the rafters with row upon row of neatly-folded cotton T-shirts in a rainbow of colours.
T-shirts - both men's and women's - are made with premium Supima cotton and are available in a range of fits and necklines,priced at £9.90.
There's an equally vast range of timeless jeans styles and colourways, priced at £34.90, including a free same-day alteration service.
"We love this vibrant, creative, stylish city and we think Uniqlo LifeWear will be a great fit," bosses said.
"Manchester's industrial heritage means you're a hardworking bunch. Our clothes work pretty hard too. They're made to last, with wardrobe essentials in quality materials and classic designs. Manchester will never go out of fashion, and nor will we. "
Set across three floors of the 21,000 sq ft building, the shop also sells a wide range of functional, fashionable outerwear, including water resistant, windproof raincoats and parkas.
"Apparently it rains a lot here? That's great news, because our Blocktech range of water resistant, windproof outerwear is specially designed for wet weather," bosses said.
"Our renowned coats and jackets are ready to help every Mancunian stay warm and dry, whether they're up walking the Peaks or out watching the football."
Across the three floors, shoppers will also find workwear staples such as linen shirts, A-line and shift dresses, trousers and chinos, as well as underwear, pyjamas and swimwear.
There's also a children's and babywear section on the top floor.
Opening offers, available until May 8 at the new Manchester shop, include £10 off ultra light down gilets (now £29.90); £2 off cotton crew or V neck T-shirts (now £7.90) and £5 off kids' light warm padded gilets (now £14.90).
Taku Morkiawa, EU CEO of Uniqlo, said the shop was the 'perfect fit for a stylish Manchester'.
He added: "We chose Manchester because we know it's ready for our lifewear philosophy. Mancunians love to look good so they'll appreciate our classic style."
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