THE new Sainsbury's Local that is taking over the former Blockbuster store in Purley will create 25 new jobs for the town.
Emma Garner, a spokesman for the supermarket, said: "We are looking forward to opening in Purley in the summer which will bring new jobs to the area and greater choice for shoppers."
She said the chain would move into the site in May to start work on the store.
However, owners of small shops are concerned the new supermarket will take custom away from them – a worry since Tesco arrived in 1991.
Sunny Patel, from Good News shop in Brighton Road off the Purley Cross, said: "It's going to affect everyone. It's not good news.
"It sells very similar items, it's small and convenient for shoppers, it's cheaper and it will be open until late."