Shoppers are calling for the Wilko store in Redditch to be used as a food hall or entertainment venue after its closure. The collapse of major brands, competition from online retailers and the impact of the pandemic have all taken a huge toll on high streets and shopping centers across the UK.
As you would expect then, the Kingfisher Shopping Center has been hit by a spate of shop closures during the past few years, including the Debenhams store, the Marks & Spencer food hall and SimplyFresh, which shut its doors for good less than three months after opening. Such closures have led to shoppers in Redditch fearing for the future of their main shopping destination, with many describing it as ‘dying’ and ‘outdated’.
The latest big name confirmed to be leaving the center is Wilko, which will close in just a few weeks’ time in May. WorcestershireLive previously reported that the company briefed staff about the decision to close the Redditch shop, saying it couldn’t agree ” favorable lease terms” with the landlord.
A Wilko spokesperson said at the time: “We have been looking at our options, but the reality is that we have been unable to reach an agreement with the landlord that makes this store commercially viable.”
It’s not clear what the future holds for the Wilko store but Worcestershire residents came up with several ideas online, ranging from a Marks & Spencer food hall to a return for Woolworths. Lynne Sangwin-Powell said: “How about Marks & Spencer returning with a food store as they have in Harborne?”
Lorraine Samman agreed, saying: “Marks & Spencer for sure.”
Meanwhile Jeremy Barker suggested: “Something for the kids like a bowling alley or ice rink.”
“A good toy shop,” Andrew Roberts said.
READ MORE: We visited the Kingfisher Shopping Center – shoppers and businesses give their verdict
Others refused to accept that Wilko was leaving for good. William Whitford said: “Reduce the rent and keep Wilko open.”
“How about another Wilko store,” Keith Daly added.
“You can’t replace it,” Linda Middleton said. “It’s a reasonably priced go to store for most everyday needs, people would rather keep it.”
Meanwhile Danny W.Gill wanted a throwback to the past, commenting: “Woolworths. Only dreaming.”
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When previously asked about what they want to see at the Kingfisher, shoppers were keen on the idea of an indoor market and an ‘entertainment hub’ featuring activities such as bowling and ice skating. Some shoppers were skeptical that a replacement for the Wilko store will be sorted at all.
Mike Harvey said: “Right now there is not enough spend to support all the stores already in the Kingfisher Centre.”
“If it is like any big store that’s closed in Kidderminster, it will stay empty for years,” Nigel Christopher Woodall said.
What did the Kingfisher Shopping Center say?
On a replacement for Wilko, the Kingfisher’s manager Ken Williams, told WorcestershireLive: “Our leasing team actively identifies and seeks out opportunities for all vacant spaces in the centre. We are working hard to bring our visitors the very best shopping experience and look forward to announcing our latest tenant news in the near future.”
Previously asked about the recent store closures, Mr Williams said he was optimistic of the centre’s future, saying it has had several new openings despite the pandemic being ‘particularly challenging for the retail sector’. He added conversations were ‘ongoing’ to replace the stores which had left the centre.
“We have remained open to our guests throughout, providing important services to the local community while operating within the constraints of government regulations and social distancing,” he said.
The Kingfisher Shopping Center has been hit by several store closures
“Moreover, during the period we have had over 30 lease renewals with existing customers as well as some exciting new openings at the centre, including Next Retail, an independent craft bakery, a burrito bar, a local history museum and a job centre. As a result, 85 percent of the center is full.
“We have ongoing conversations with a view to securing new retailers to occupy the remaining space and look forward to bringing vibrant new occupiers into the center to continue to serve the local community.”
READ MORE:Major store to close in Redditch’s Kingfisher Center in May
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