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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Business
Emma Munbodh

Primark shopper's social distancing rant as stores welcome thousands in first day

Tens of thousands of shoppers flocked to Primark stores across the country on Monday, after 153 outlets reopened to the public for the first time since the Government enforced a ban on non-essential trading.

At its flagship store in Birmingham, Primark customers were seen queuing since 3am, forcing the store to open early to cope with demand.

Similar scenes were pictured in Marble Arch, London, as the retailer welcomed shoppers for the first time in more than 11-weeks.

However, huge crowds have sparked fury amongst some shoppers who are struggling under new safety guidelines imposed by the government.

One shopper was filmed flying into a rage during a social distancing rant, as she queued up to pay for her basket of goods.

The woman was heard screaming “they were queueing up and so was I” during a fiery exchange at the popular chain.

Two teenagers were also with the customer who continued to shout "queuing up first" throughout the video which was shared with the tweet: "Primark hasn’t even been open for 3 hours and Karen’s already arguing because she doesn’t want to social distance."

Hundreds of shoppers stand in line ahead of the store opening at Primark in Birmingham on Monday (PA)

On Monday, hundreds of people were pictured queuing up outside branches of Primark and TK Maxx - with even police called to some outlets across England.

On London's Oxford Street, chaotic scenes showed hundreds crowding around Nike's flagship store, with many breaking social distancing rules.

It comes as the government has warned face coverings could soon be compulsory in all stores in England.

The video, taken in London, shows one frustrated shoppers' anger over social distancing (DILANTHA DISSANAYAKE / CATERS NEWS)

Similar queues were also seen outside Sports Direct and John Lewis stores, while crowds swarmed around Zara and Debenhams for 70% off discounts.

The majority of non-essential stores have been given the green light to trade again in England - though shops such as pubs, libraries and hair dressers will remain closed.

Those that reopen will have to pass the Government's safety risk assessment first - all fitting rooms will be closed and, where possible, separate entrance and exit doors will be introduced to minimise customer contact.

In Westfield, London, the shopping centre has introduced a roundabout to stop shoppers crossing paths inside.

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