Store of the week: Boxpark's new restaurant quarter in Croydon

Launched last week, Boxpark in Croydon is neither shop nor mall. Instead, it is a good example of the way in which both retailers and mall operators are turning to leisure as a means of fostering a new revenue stream.

In this instance, a large temporary  structure next to East Croydon station houses shipping containers in a similar structure to the first Boxpark in Shoreditch. But instead of shops and eateries, it is devoted to eating out, ‘street food’ style.

Rather more important is the move that Boxpark has made from temporary mall to temporary (the lease is for five years) restaurant haven.

And in keeping with the local tech scene, Boxpark founder and chief executive Roger Wade says the site is filled with the latest shopper-facing technology to ensure that high-speed Wi-Fi is a reality.

He adds: “Croydon was an obvious choice. It is the London borough with the highest population and one of the most affluent.”