| Topic: | Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Pergola mark 2 | |
| Posted by: | Craig Fordham | |
| Date/Time: | 23/11/18 16:20:00 |
| The retail world has moved on significantly in recent years and will continue to do so. Giants that have ruled High Streets for years have either gone to the wall or are facing significant problems - Woolworths, BHS, House of Fraser, Debenhams, M&S, WH Smiths etc. Even that darling of the middle classes, John Lewis, now does a third of its business online, a figure that is likely to grow to nearer 50% in the next three years. As a result they’re rumoured to be considering a programme of store closures. Maintaining multiple expensive buildings is no longer a viable option for most retailers, hence the increasing number of store closures. Only the most attractive and vibrant destinations can expect their High Streets to survive in the traditional format. For me, Putney is no longer a destination place for shopping - even Wandsworth now has more to offer. The only hope for Putney High Street (other than a dramatic rethink of rents) is innovative attractions that act as a USP and might persuade more people to come. Only a significant increase in overall footfall would make the type of retailers mentioned on this forum consider opening in Putney. Without initiatives like the Pergola (with the various noise checks and balances in place) I think we’re just looking at a future of more discount shops, empty units and the eventual conversion into residential usage -which will mean more apartment blocks. Of course some people might prefer that? Those, however, simply waiting expectantly for the likes of M&S to return or for their dream shops to suddenly appear might, I fear, just as well wait for a new Morecambe & Wise Christmas special to be produced It’s change or die. My vote’s for change ...and eventually a John Lewis (my vote’s always for John Lewis) |