Costa Coffee is pulling out of a Kent shopping centre this week, it has been confirmed.
The chain currently occupies a prime spot in Ashford’s County Square, but will shut its branch on Thursday.
Costa Coffee’s County Square branch in 2018; the site will close on Thursday
Those in charge of the centre say they hope the space “won’t be empty for long” as discussions with a new tenant are ongoing.
But in a statement released today, County Square chiefs confirmed Costa has not renewed its lease for the space, which forms part of the centre’s main square.
“We are sad to advise Costa will be departing, with their last trading day advised as Thursday,” it said.
“After many years of trading at County Square, we are sorry to see them go and would like to wish Costa and their staff much success for their future.
“While we may be saying goodbye, we are pleased to advise lease discussions are already progressing with another exciting operator who is keen to take occupation in the main square as soon as possible.
Costa Coffee is pulling out of the main square at County Square shopping centre
“All being well, the space won’t be empty for long.
“We look forward to sharing more information as plans develop.”
Following the announcement, residents voiced their disappointment.
Commenting online, Melissa Andrews said: “So much for people saying if you don’t use it you will lose it. People were always here.”
Carl Holness added: “It’s a real shame Costa is going – I often visit when I’m out.”
“It’s a real shame Costa is going…”
Despite the closure, Costa Coffee will still operate eight branches in Ashford.
Three standalone sites are found at Ashford Designer Outlet, Ashford Retail Park in Sevington, and at Drovers Retail Park following its opening in November.
Costa cafes also trade from Tesco Crooksfoot, Tesco Park Farm, William Harvey Hospital and Ashford International station.
It also opened a new shop within Sainsbury’s Bybrook in December, taking over the supermarket’s closed cafe.