Brighton-based independent retailer Taj has moved to quash rumours that it is considering reopening a store in the city if Sainsbury's fails to secure an alcohol licence for its former premises.
Taj closed the Old Steine store last December. News that Sainsbury's was due to take over the site, prompted squatters to occupy the premises a fortnight ago in a campaign dubbed SaboTaj. They have since left.
Local press reports suggested Taj could reopen the store if the supermarket's application to sell alcohol was rejected, but Taj director Amir Khan told The Grocer a return was "highly unlikely".
"Sure, we're looking to expand in that area," he said. "But Sainsbury's operates elsewhere in Brighton without an alcohol licence. These rumours have been blown way out of proportion."
Taj closed the Old Steine store last December. News that Sainsbury's was due to take over the site, prompted squatters to occupy the premises a fortnight ago in a campaign dubbed SaboTaj. They have since left.
Local press reports suggested Taj could reopen the store if the supermarket's application to sell alcohol was rejected, but Taj director Amir Khan told The Grocer a return was "highly unlikely".
"Sure, we're looking to expand in that area," he said. "But Sainsbury's operates elsewhere in Brighton without an alcohol licence. These rumours have been blown way out of proportion."
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