London's new Harry Potter flagship opened on Oxford Street on November 4 while around 16 transgender-rights protesters gathered outside. Variety reported from the scene that the customer queue continued moving into the two-floor shop at The Ribbon development.
Demonstrators raise concerns as store welcomes visitors
Protesters carried signs and used megaphones to urge fans to reconsider supporting the franchise amid controversy over author J.K. Rowling's views. Activist West told Variety that the group wanted transgender people to have their voices heard.
West also argued that the franchise had lost popularity compared with earlier years. That assessment was the demonstrator's view of the opening and the wider debate.
A store spokesperson said the shop welcomed hundreds of fans and supported peaceful expression of personal viewpoints. The 21,000-square-foot site is described as the UK's largest official Harry Potter store.
Another promotional event approaches
Rowling presents her stance as an argument for protecting women's rights through sex-based legal safeguards. Transgender-rights campaigners have opposed those views and urged boycotts of related projects.
Oxford Street is planning Harry Potter-themed Christmas lights for November 9, tied to HBO's television adaptation. Variety reported that more than 11,000 people had signed a Good Law Project petition seeking cancellation.
The petition organisers argue that the partnership could financially benefit Rowling and make transgender Londoners feel unwelcome. Rowling is an executive producer of the new series.
The planned November 9 lights event is the next promotional milestone after a store opening attended by both shoppers and protesters.