Allders Parade launches, creating new opportunities for Croydon’s community

Allders Paraded has launched, marking a significant milestone for The Croydon Project. Opening day was a brilliant success, Miniso and Sky led the first wave of openings on 26 September, drawing crowds and long queues. October has since welcomed fashion brand Abaci and florist Isle of Flowers. Coco & Nut, independent locally founded café, and Meltin’ Memories, an ice cream shop that was once part of the original Allders department store, are due to finish off the wave of openings at the end of the month.

Allders Parade brings fresh energy to Croydon’s town centre, representing a bold step in its transformation and a sign of exciting things to come. Allders Parade is also creating vital opportunities for the local community, through the launch of URW’s Retail Skills Academy in Croydon earlier this summer. The Academy featured a three-day training programme designed to equip participants with accredited customer service skills, employability support and real interview experience with retailers. Delivered in partnership with Ethos Farm, Croydon Works and Croydon Council, the July 2025 programme saw 12 local residents complete the training, with five securing roles at Miniso, one of the first retailers to open at Allders Parade. There are still slots available for the upcoming Autumn/Winter Academy, click for more information.