WHSmith closes Croydon Whitgift Centre store amid rising vacancies
What happened
WHSmith, which was previously known as TGJones, has put up closing-down signs at its store in Croydon’s Whitgift Centre. This closure comes as the shopping centre continues to grapple with a significant increase in vacant shops.
Why it matters
The closure contributes to a trend of increasing retail vacancies in the Whitgift Centre. The number of empty units has climbed from 46 in September 2024 to 93 by August 2026.
Who's involved
- WHSmithBritish retailer closing its store in the shopping centre
- Croydon CouncilMunicipal body governing the area where the closure is occurring
- SwarovskiAustrian crystal and jewelry company that previously maintained a retail presence in the centre
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Croydon CouncilSpeculative
Croydon Council might face a local market price decline due to the rising number of vacant units in Whitgift Centre
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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WHSmith
British retailer
Nothing else this week.
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Swarovski
Austrian crystal and jewelry company
Nothing else this week.
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Croydon Council
municipal body governing London Borough of Croydon in Greater London, England, United Kingdom