Clothing retailer Primark and Indian information technology service provider Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have extended their partnership to transform the former’s technology operations and support global expansion plans.
The collaboration, which builds on a relationship established in 2016, will see TCS help Primark transition to a more agile, product-based operating model up to 2029.
Since 2016, TCS has played a crucial role in driving integration programmes and stabilising Primark's core platforms, enhancing cybersecurity and improving the stability and reliability of the retailer's processes and systems.
The expanded partnership will focus on creating a technology operating environment that is resilient, reliable and efficient.
TCS's support will enable Primark to decrease its time-to-market, aligning with the retailer's strategies for future expansion.
The consultancy will introduce intelligent automation and DevOps technologies to streamline application development, testing and maintenance processes.
Primark chief information officer Andrew Brothers said: "Working with TCS will provide us with the ongoing operational stability and accountability needed to support our business to scale. This will allow us to respond to market trends and customer preferences in a timely manner, ensuring that we continue to deliver quality products at the best value for our customers."
The new operating model will be closely aligned with business functions and driven by their priorities, offering Primark a comprehensive, real-time view of its technology, business systems and processes.
This alignment is expected to enhance performance and support the agile ecosystem required for the organisation's rapid growth.
TCS has a significant presence in the UK market, working with 200 of the region's leading businesses. The company has 23,000 employees in the UK and Ireland.
TCS vice-president and UK and Europe retail head Shekar Krishnan said: "We’re thrilled to support Primark’s mission to offer affordable fashion for everyone and its global vision for growth.
In October 2023, UK-based supermarket chain Asda entered a multi-year partnership with TCS.