Brighton Shop Owners Resist Co-op Expansion Amid Eviction Threats

In Brighton, local shop owners are rallying against eviction as the Co-operative Group plans to expand one of its branches in the Seven Dials area, despite having another store just 200 meters away. This decision has led to significant community backlash, with many questioning the ethical stance of a retailer that claims to prioritize local interests.

Louise Oliver, the owner of Seven Cellars wine merchants, has been part of the Seven Dials community for a decade. She likens her situation to a Charles Dickens tale, where a beloved shop is taken over by a powerful entity. "Everything about the Co-op is a complete lie," Oliver stated, emphasizing the disconnect between the Co-op's public image and its actions.

The Co-op's expansion plan involves evicting both Oliver’s wine shop and the nearby Latina cafe. According to Oliver, the eviction notice indicated that she could be forced to close her business as early as November. "I was shocked to learn about the imminent eviction when men with tape measures appeared outside my shop," she recounted. She believes that the Co-op’s decision is particularly perplexing given the proximity of another store, which only takes a three-minute walk to reach.

The Co-operative Group has faced scrutiny for its expansion plans, especially after admitting to over 100 breaches of a UK competition rule that prevents supermarkets from obstructing rival businesses from opening nearby. This has led to significant criticism from local politicians and the affected business owners. Siân Berry, MP for Brighton Pavilion, has expressed her support for Oliver and the Latina cafe owner, urging the Co-op to reconsider its expansion and respect local community sentiments.

Oliver estimates that her potential relocation could cost her around £60,000, with the new space requiring extensive renovations. Although she is entitled to a mandatory payment of approximately £8,500 for the non-renewal of her lease, the financial burden remains substantial. "The community response has been overwhelming, with nearly 12,000 signatures on a Change.org petition supporting my cause," she noted.

This situation reflects a broader concern about the impact of large retail chains on local businesses, particularly in areas known for their unique and independent shops. Oliver emphasizes the need for her community to stand up against corporate encroachment. "We need to preserve our vibrant local economy and culture," she asserted.

As the Co-operative Group maintains that it is committed to fair practices and has offered extensions to affected tenants, the future remains uncertain for Oliver and her fellow business owners. The situation continues to develop as the community rallies to protect its local enterprises, underscoring the ongoing tension between large retailers and independent businesses in urban areas.