SHOPPERS have spoken of their sadness and disappointment after a popular cafe in Southend’s Victoria Shopping Centre suddenly closed over Christmas.

Southend Council, which owns the shopping centre, confirmed yesterday that Caffe Espresso had shut down, however teased that a new cafe operator “would be coming soon”. 

The council stated it is unable to confirm who the new cafe operator would be. 

READ MORE >> More than £25k raised in two days after Rayleigh mum told she has just months to live

Residents first reported seeing owners clearing up the site ahead of the bank holiday weekend, with rumours of a closure circulating.

This sparked an outpouring of emotion from shoppers, who praised Caffe Espresso bosses and staff for their work over the years. 

Tessa Thowney, a 73-year-old, from Southend, said: “I really think it is sad.

“I had coffee in there all the time, and always thought the staff were very friendly.

“Coffee and anything else were brought to the table. It was great service.

“I never thought it was anymore expensive than any other coffee shop either.

“I really feel for the staff that worked there too.”
Keith Grinstead added: “It is sad news.

“But, having worked extensively in retail in the past years, it is unfortunately a sign of the times with reduced footfall.

“It is seen in every town and city.

“Retailers simply do not get the level of footfall needed to cover costs and make a profit throughout the year.

“It is a great shame though to see another empty space.”

Following the announcement, social media was rife with claims that Caffe Espresso bosses were forced to leave the shopping centre at short notice. 

However, when Southend Council was questioned about this, they continued to reiterate that they could not comment further.

In a statement, they just said: “We can confirm that Caffe Espresso has closed.

“This area will soon be re-occupied by another cafe operator.”

The Echo has attempted to contact the owners of Caffe Espresso. 

Southend Council purchased the Victoria Shopping Centre for £10million in December 2020, striking a deal with the NHS to add a blood test centre and adding a climbing wall to the top floor to diversify options in the city centre and boost footfall.