Train companies seek government aid for station retail tenants
Britain’s train companies are lobbying the government to introduce rent cuts and payment holidays for retail tenants at their stations to help them through the coronavirus pandemic.
Retailers such as WHSmith and Greggs, which operate a large number of stores in travel hubs, have been asked to pay full rent in many UK stations – including those directly or indirectly operated by the government.
Revenues from travel retail have been decimated since lockdown was implemented in March, forcing people to stop travelling.
Some stores in popular commuter stations such as London Victoria and London Bridge have started to reopen, but footfall remains much lower than pre-coronavirus levels.
Already have an account? Sign in here
