“We’re still here”: Croydon’s main street in need of new retailers

Croydon’s Main Street has existed in one way or another since 1855.

However, as demographics and appetites change, the offerings on the street have continued to evolve.

Former Collins Booksellers Croydon owner, Mark Elliott, said he still holds out hope that the town can attract new and exciting retail back opportunities.

“It’s difficult times for us as retailers,” he told The Eastern Melburnian.

“Australia wide, we’re doing very well, except Croydon.

“It’s been hard for a lot of businesses in this street.”

Mr Elliott said pushing retail opportunities was especially hard with the current high cost of living.

“People with disposable income are not buying books as much as they used to because they don’t have to buy books,” he said.

“We’ll get through it.

“I mean, I’ve been here 30 years, so I’ve been through some pretty tough times here, but we’re still here.”

Mr Elliott said the recent losses of key retail pillars of the Main Street such as music store Hans Music Spot and paint store The Paint Place had been significant blows to the street’s retail offerings.

“Long-standing tenants have actually left the street in the last three months,” he said.

“We need more retail in the street."

“It’s so hard to get people to come to this street.”