Waitrose Croydon shuts down for good

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

A popular Waitrose store in Croydon closed its doors for good on Saturday after 13 years in the town centre.

Residents have taken to social media to lament the loss of the supermarket in George Street.

The closure of the shop, which employed 70 people, was announced by Waitrose in August.

At the time James Allen, head of retail, said: “We have taken great pride in being part of the community for more than 13 years so the proposed closure is not something we take lightly and without having looked at all the alternatives.”

Residents shared their disappointment at the loss of the shop on Twitter. Creative Croydon wrote: “Well it’s goodbye Waitrose in central Croydon, sad to see you go.”

Another user Mattie Jameson said: “So sad that Waitrose Croydon is closing its doors today.

“Odd decision when there are so many new developments and apartments opening up directly around it. A loss for the area as it tries so hard to improve.”

While Julie Setchfield said: “I paid my last visit to the Waitrose store.

“I have spent many times here over the years buying all sorts of stuff after a typical long day at work. Needless to say that my thoughts go to the workers. I hope most were able to be redeployed elsewhere.”

Another resident, JonJon Galliard, said: “I don’t understand why you are closing your Croydon store.

“It’s always busy, fills a niche in the area and the alternatives you suggest are far away. This decision makes no sense.”

It is unclear what will happen to the now empty shop space. No planning or licensing application has been lodged with Croydon council for the site.

Pictured top: Waitrose in George Street, Croydon (Picture: Tara O’Connor)