You need only to give a cursory glance to know that Primark mean business in Broadmead.

When their name was first announced as the new occupiers of the landmark House of Fraser building, it was greeted by some with scepticism and others with dismay.

But as the days count down to its opening in August, it is impossible to be anything but optimistic.

Primark is transforming the old John Lewis store both inside and out. It is spending time, effort and a vast amount of money on this much-loved building.

It could probably have got away with a relatively inexpensive makeover. But what Primark is doing goes much, much further.

And if their flagship Oxford Street store in London is anything to go by, then Broadmead is in for something special.

Primark is a company which understands its market perfectly. It also appreciates that many more people shop at its stores than admit to doing so.

And it knows full well that if any shop is going to do well during the recession, it is one which offers a range of affordable clothes – particularly those for children.

The proof of all that is already there with its existing store in Broadmead. What will be different when the doors open on the former Lewis's building is that Primark will draw in a new range of customers.

That will be good for its business but it will also be good for Broadmead.

Its opening will mark the end of a period of rebuilding Bristol's main shopping centre, which started when Primark's tenancy of the old C&A building ended.

Here is a store which represents common sense and prudence in a time when we all need to watch what we spend. Make no mistake about it, the new Primark will be welcomed by Bristolians of all ages with open arms.