Forum Topic

Larger Boots  branch closing

We've just been informed that the larger PHS branch of Boots is closing on 18 Jan and  is moving to the smaller branch  (this once was Underwoods) beside Smiths.I regret the move as they stock fewer items and seem to cater for a different clientele. Constant  break ins or rate increases or developers plans could each have contributed. If anyone knows anymore perhaps they could post it here.

Katrina Black ● 2861d18 Comments

That is bad news - the smaller Boots offers a poor selection in comparison and I never use it. Am guessing it's a developer's plans that is the cause since Dyas and M&S in the same block have already gone.

Lucille Grant ● 2861d

Another nail in the PHS coffin. 😐

Sue Hammond ● 2861d

Boots seem to be doing all right elsewhere. The large M and S site at Covent Garden is being taken over by Boots. I know it's not Putney but it reinforces the fact that PHS is not doing well - sorry Nick

Jane Carter ● 2861d

I agree. There's a much wider selection at the large branch and the pharmacy section is bigger. its closure is a loss. I had a letter this morning saying the opticians are moving to the Boots on the other side of the street - another small store.  I do hope the optician I see will stay in Putney as he is knowledgeable and I trust him.At my last visit one of the staff said they had noticed a drop in the footfall after M&S's departure.

Elizabeth Balsom ● 2861d

Business rates are staggering for retailers, and when rent is over a certain amount they have to contribute moreWhen TFL announced they secured extra funding from businesses for Crossrail this meant that they could apply an additional charge on bills to fund Crossrail. They had applied this extra charge from 2010 but were extending it now due to the delay. Its not much but it is to businesses that won't benefit from it and who already feel the bill is large enough.You cannot blame businesses for downsizing, everything they make from having a shop just gets gobbled up in expenses.Hopefully they will offer a larger selection but a smaller quantity to save on space in the smaller shop?

Emarisa Battoia ● 2861d

Please re read the letter, the Opticians practice within the larger boots is closing and moving into the optician store.None of the stores are closing!!Frustrates me the negative drama people cause!

Nick Gulliford ● 2861d

Hi Nick, do you mind if i ask if you work for the council? It just everyone seems to always ask you what is happening, and you seem to know what is happening? Are you the His Masters Voice of Putney High St :)

Emarisa Battoia ● 2861d

Superdrug are my personal faves and you can now get prescriptions delivered from local chemists.Maybe that's why?  Boots nearly kidnapped me to give me a flu jab (but I said I was already booked at my doctors' surgery.  They said, well you could cancel it).  Superdrug staff are sweet and very helpful :)  Boots looking a bit tired, including the staff.

Bunny Payne ● 2861d

You're right Nick. Sorry folks I got it wrong or at least I was misinformed. The letter does refer to the hearing unit re-allocating to Boots opticians not the store itself. I do value the service highly at the larger Boots and I'm always grateful for the help I receive. Many apologies if this post caused a panic to others.

Katrina Black ● 2861d

Katrina, really sorry if I sounded rude wasn’t directed at you. Just frustration at the negative posts about Putney from people

Nick Gulliford ● 2861d

Ha ha no I don’t work for the council. I am a resident of Putney. I work in property though and born and bred in Putney so passionate about God’s town. Cheers Nick

Nick Gulliford ● 2861d

Hi Emarisa,No I don’t work for the council.I do work in commercial property.Just Putney born and bred and very proud of where I live.

Nick Gulliford ● 2861d

Thanks Nick. I think maybe the negative posts are from the sad and lonely people. Putney's always been a great place despite the aircraft noise. Change will always happen and for me changes to the area have been generally all to the good. Now if only the plane noise could fade away that would be wonderful.

Katrina Black ● 2861d

I too was concerned about Mr Gelbart. He WILL be the optician at the other shop.. looking after us as now, but not on Wednesdays or Sundays

Lyn Clark ● 2860d

NickI too grew up in Putney and have lived here most of my long life. Yes I agree it's a very pleasant place to live and,as Bunny has said, we are lucky to live here. However I do think there are a couple of downsides. One is that property prices are now so high that, anyway in our street, children of parents who grew up here have had to move out and been replaced by bankers, lawyers etc who are the only ones who can afford to live here. The other downside is PHS which frankly has deteriorated over the years and does need improvement. I don't think it's being negative to point this out, as many here on this forum have.

Jane Carter ● 2860d

@Katrina 09.22"I think maybe the negative posts are from the sad and lonely people."What!!?? Patronising...much? 🤨 Katrina, many of us who have lived in Putney for many years and watched the decline of PHS are very concerned about the state of it now 🙁 and not just the "sad and lonely" as you put it. What a ridiculous comment.🙄Kudos to Nick👏🏻though for his enduring enthusiasm and promotion of our town centre.

Sue Hammond ● 2860d

And thanks to all who provide tips on new restaurants. Have had some very good meals thanks to forum reviewers!

Ruth Pates ● 2860d

I agree nothing in Putney High Street.

Barbara Stevens ● 2860d