Aldi force M&S to relocate

Photo: M&S Eyewear directors – Mark and Simon

Supermarket giants force local business to relocate

Traders on Birkdale Trading Estate are being forced to sell up as a low budget supermarket eyes up the land for a new development.

M&S Eyewear was established in 1990, Simon and Mark have worked in the optical business, manufacturing spectacles since the mid 70’s. The company has now made the decision to  relocate to 14b Upper Aughton  Road, Birkdale, Southport (1 Aug 2016).

With Aldi supermarkets in advanced talks with the land owners of Birkdale Trading Estate in a bid to take over the site and develop it into a new supermarket complex – rivaling the nearby Tesco Extra store and adding to the chain’s portfolio in the resort.

Photo: M&S Eyewear location as from 1st August 2016

Southport is already home to one of the UK’s largest Aldi Supermarkets, based at Meols Cop Retail Park.

Earlier this year a spokesperson for Aldi told OTSNews.co.uk:

“Aldi can confirm that it is considering its options for bringing forward a new food store on the site of the Birkdale Trading Estate on Liverpool Road, Birkdale. However, we would like to assure tenants of the estate, elected members, and local residents, that this is far from guaranteed.  Discussions about the site are ongoing with the landowner, and a firm agreement on the future of the Estate has not been reached.”

Birkdale Trading Estate plays host to a number of traders, all specialising in various sectors including van hire, optical services, flooring, Southport electric bikes and more.

Another trader told our reporter: “I believe the deal has been signed and I think some have already been given warning notices that the transformation could start within 12 months.”

Southport MP John Pugh weighed in on the news, warning that it could have a lasting negative effect on the area.

MP John Pugh has raised the alarm about the possible closure of  Birkdale Trading Estate following three month notice to quit being served on many small traders.

“Unconfirmed plans are rumoured to earmark the site for another discount supermarket.

“This is very worrying and not just for the businesses concerned .

“Many small businesses start on trading estates and a range of crafts and skills are perfected and developed there.

“With all due respect not everyone is going to or should end up in food retail.

“Employment choices must not be narrowed for our young people. The council must make it plain to the owners that under the local plan we need these wider opportunities and not yet another supermarket.”

Aldi Supermarkets UK have been approached for comment.

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