Neon signs, tiny aisles and the ambience of a panic attack. Britain, are you ready for the Chemist Warehouse experience?

‘Outside, the stores give a hint about the chaos within,’ writes Brigid Delaney on the imminent introduction of the Chemist Warehouse experience to the UK. Photograph: Darren England/AAP

We’ve all been there. You feel a slight headache coming on and decide to pop into the nearest chemist to pick up some Panadol. Chances are, if you’re in Australia, it’s a Chemist Warehouse – and the experience of shopping for the cure is about to make you feel sicker.

Outside, the stores give a hint about the chaos within. Signs scream “DISCOUNT” and “Australia’s Cheapest Chemist!!” The exteriors are painted with bright red, yellow and blue signage, and, for anyone confused, enormous arrows point towards the door.