// Primark has reverted to segregated changing rooms after a number of female customers reported unsettling experiences in its combined changing spaces
// The retailer has erected signs reading “These fitting rooms are for Women only”
Primark has separated its changing rooms into “women only” and “all genders”, installing new signage outside its changing rooms to separate the categories.
It comes after the fashion retailer announced last October that it would be axing its gender-neutral changing areas after women complained that they didn’t feel safe using desegregated facilities.
In a picture posted on social media, new signs in a branch of the shop read: “These fitting rooms are for Women only”.
It added: “We also have Any Gender fitting rooms available for everyone – please ask.”
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Primark told MailOnline: “The combined fitting room area is for everyone. The women-only area is for all women and customers are not required to provide identification.
“If someone appears to be deliberately trying to abuse the policy then the store will manage at their discretion. The changes we are introducing are informed by the feedback we have had from customers and colleagues.”
The signs currently being rolled out across stores are a part of that same policy change, with many celebrating the move.
One user said: “Thank you Primark I don’t know if this sign is new but I was very pleased to see it today. Safe spaces for everyone!”
Thank you @Primark I don’t know if this sign is new but I was very pleased to see it today. Safe spaces for everyone! pic.twitter.com/LuGVN0CseN
— Tasha (@SusanMee9) March 19, 2023
However, many shoppers remained confused, demanding they be made clearer with others expressing their anger over the signage with #Primark trending on twitter this week over the move.
One user said: I was totally mislead by this sign. @Primark do better!
While Trans activist India Willoughby branded the signage ‘terrible’, accusing Primark of ‘succumbing to trans hysteria’.
“You know trans women are recognised in law as women – yes? Fact. The racial equivalent of this is ‘White’s Only’ or the homophobic version ‘Straight’s Only.’ I hope you get sued.”
“Just to be clear…If you let me know of a store where I would be banned from the Women’s changing room (despite being a woman) I’ll pop down this week and we can start a court case.”
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