Zara owner Inditex has opened the first UK branch of its budget fashion chain Lefties in Liverpool, aiming to compete with Primark, Shein and supermarket clothing ranges. The launch matters because it introduces a rapidly expanding low-cost retailer with both physical shops and nationwide online delivery, while using automation to lower operating costs and speed up store processes.

The Liverpool One shop uses basket-scanning self-checkouts, robotic hanger sorting and automated fitting-room returns; two further UK stores are planned for Lakeside in Essex and the Metrocentre near Newcastle this year. Lefties, founded in 1999 to sell Zara leftovers but now operating its own ranges, offers clothing, shoes and homewares across 20 countries and 225 stores; its dresses average £18, compared with £16 at Primark and £18.50 on Shein, while bras start at £7.99.