A major supermarket chain with more than 1,400 locations is set to close a beloved store in Croydon, South London. Sainsbury's has been a fixture in the Whitgift Centre since 1969, making it the largest site in the country. However, declining footfall and plans to build a new site by the owners of the shopping centre have led to the decision to close the store.
End of an era: Closure slated for later this year
Sainsbury's has confirmed that the closure of the Whitgift Centre store will take place later this year, though an exact date has not been announced. Despite efforts to explore alternative roles for affected employees and to provide support during this challenging time, the decision to close the store was not taken lightly.
Neighbourhood convenience: Alternatives for customers
While the closure may be disappointing for customers, Sainsbury's has emphasized that they will still be able to shop at several other nearby locations. These include the West Croydon Station Local, George Street Local, and Croydon High Street Local stores.
Sainsbury's spokesperson told Inside Croydon, "Customers will continue to be able to shop with us at a number of nearby Sainsbury’s stores, including our West Croydon Station Local, George Streel Local and Croydon High Street Local stores."
As the Whitgift Centre store prepares to bid farewell after more than half a century, its closure serves as a reminder of the ever-changing retail landscape.
