A recent visit to Croydon’s Centrale Centre revealed a concerning trend – a total of 10 shops remain vacant within the shopping complex. The once bustling retail hub now showcases a number of storefronts either boarded up, permanently closed, or simply empty, with only a few scattered leaflets to hint at their former occupants.
Exploring the Vacant Units
Walking from the North End entrance into Centrale to the top floor, it was evident that the shopping center was grappling with a significant number of empty units. On the ground floor, a fenced-up space that used to house a McDonald’s stood desolate, while across from it, an untitled, bare store added to the growing list of vacancies.
Moving to the first floor, a large section of the shopping center was cordoned off, revealing three empty units devoid of any indication of their previous tenants. A nearby empty store, adorned with pieces from the Croydon Art Collection, stood next to the outdoor clothing store Trespass. Interestingly, the Trespass store itself was in the process of closing down, as evidenced by the prominent posters plastered on its windows.
Continuing our exploration, we came across three more shops that were completely empty and boarded up, their windows adorned with “clearance” and “everything must go” signs. One unit stood dark and vacant, with shutters firmly closed, while across from Pinball Republic, another untitled empty space added to the growing number of vacant units within the shopping center.
The Resilience of Centrale
Despite the visible vacancies, Centrale Shopping Centre continues to house a variety of popular stores that attract shoppers from near and far. From Superdrug to the budget-friendly One Beyond, House of Fraser, Cafe Giardino, and the Indian restaurant Zabadarst, the center remains a hub of activity and commerce.
One notable feature of the department store within Centrale is its stunning view of Croydon, offering visitors a unique perspective of the bustling cityscape. Additionally, the center hosts pop-up units, such as the beloved Costa del Croydon in the summer and Santa’s Grotto during the festive season, adding to the overall charm and appeal of the shopping destination.
Moreover, Centrale boasts numerous seating areas scattered throughout the center, providing shoppers and visitors with the opportunity to rest and relax amidst their retail excursions. The convenience of its location near public transport, with East and West Croydon stations just a few minutes away, further enhances the accessibility and appeal of Centrale Shopping Centre to both locals and tourists alike.
Challenges Facing Retail
The prevalence of empty shops and retail spaces for sale in south London is a concerning trend exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic and cost-of-living crisis. Closures of popular stores like Wilko and the shuttering of approximately 300 Boots outlets nationwide underscore the challenges facing businesses in the current economic climate.
The rise of online shopping has also contributed to a decline in foot traffic to traditional brick-and-mortar stores, further impacting their viability. High rents and business rates in London’s commercial districts pose additional obstacles for small businesses, making it increasingly difficult for them to sustain operations and remain competitive in the market.
While efforts are being made to revitalize and rejuvenate retail spaces, the road ahead remains uncertain for many businesses struggling to navigate the complex landscape of the retail industry. The future of Centrale Shopping Centre and other similar establishments hinges on their ability to adapt, innovate, and attract consumers in an ever-evolving marketplace.
In conclusion, the challenges facing Centrale Shopping Centre and its vacant units are reflective of broader trends impacting the retail sector in London and beyond. Despite the hurdles, the resilience and adaptability of businesses within the center offer hope for a brighter future, where creativity and community engagement can drive sustainable growth and revitalization.