Primark is set to embark on its largest store expansion round in 10 years as it strengthens its presence in mainland Europe and the US on the back of a strong first half to its current financial year. Parent group Associated British Foods yesterday reported better-than- expected interim figures, showing group revenues of just under £7.3bn (€8.7bn) and operating profits of £640m — up 20% and 36% — for the six months to the first week of March.