Have you ever shopped at any of the places about to close down? They're about to close down for a reason. If they offered better products at better prices, they wouldn't be in trouble. The harsh realities of the free market means businesses have to keep up with change and competition. People have put up with lousy shops in Honor Oak because for a long time it was an undesirable place to invest (due to transport, demographic etc) and the mediocre shops could peddle a poor service without a complaint or a challenge. Thank God those days are gone (I've lived through them). The Sainsbury's development means local shops will have to raise their game. The owner of the Honor Oak Supermarket understands this - he has told me that the Sainsbury's decision means he will begin to diversify and offer specialist wines and different products. I'm betting he will survive. I'll certainly support his attempts to improve. For all the people crying foul about the other shops closing - I don't get it. Who is going to miss them?