Primark introduces Buy Now, Pay Later options with Klarna and Clearpay

Primark is rolling out flexible payment options in its stores, allowing shoppers to spread the cost of their purchases through buy now, pay later (BNPL) providers Klarna and Clearpay.

Historically absent from this type of payment model, the high street retailer is now offering customers the ability to split payments, reflecting the growing popularity of BNPL services in the UK.

A spokesperson for Primark said: "We’re always looking for ways to make shopping with Primark even easier and more convenient for our customers.Flexible payment methods are now commonly offered in the UK and we’re one of the few retailers who haven’t historically enabled these.

"We’ve entered into a trial with Klarna and Clearpay, both market leaders in the space, to give customers more choice in how they pay. In doing so, we’re adding convenience and flexibility to the great value and quality they already know and love from Primark."

To use Klarna in-store, reports suggest customers need to download the app, register for the service, search for Primark, and create a one-time card that can be added to Apple Pay or other digital wallets.

Shoppers can then top up the card to their chosen amount and use it to pay for items in store, spreading the cost over time.

BNPL services have surged in popularity across the UK. According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), one in five UK adults - roughly 10.9 million people - used a BNPL service at least once in the 12 months to May 2024, up from 17% in 2022.

These services allow consumers to spread the cost of purchases without paying interest, though they will come under closer regulatory oversight from next year.

Under new rules proposed by the FCA, BNPL providers will be required to check that consumers can afford repayments and offer support if borrowers experience financial difficulty. Customers will also have the right to complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service if issues arise.

Primark’s move comes amid a climate of rising living costs, with shoppers increasingly seeking flexible ways to manage household spending. By integrating BNPL services into its stores, the retailer aims to offer both convenience and choice while maintaining its reputation for value and quality.