Can a Bayswater’s Greek grocery compete with Whole Foods?

The possible arrival of a Whole Foods branch in Queensway raised questions about the future of independent shops and the community identity that they help sustain.

The Athenian Grocery, as seen on the street - blue and white details.

Athenian Grocery on Moscow Road, Bayswater, which has served customers since 1952. Credits: Paola Maggioni, 13 October 2026.

Bayswater’s food retailers face growing competition as Westminster City Council’s March 2026 retail strategy is reshaping the area. The possibility of a new Amazon-owned Whole Foods at Queensway Market comes as independent retailers face price-conscious customers and rising costs.

At the Athenian Grocery on Moscow Road, George Tanidis, 33, sales assistant, said the shop has become less busy as customers increasingly choose cheaper alternatives. Established in 1952 and owned by Alex Joannides, the Greek shop serves local residents, as well as selling Greek products online across the UK.

“It’s not as busy as it used to be,” said Tanidis, pointing to wider financial pressures. He stated personal service remains an advantage, arguing that “the way that we treat customers” is something larger chains cannot replicate.

However, maintaining this role has become harder as shoppers prioritise affordability. Tanidis called for Government support to reduce business rates, warning of the consequences for small businesses. The council’s retail strategy describes a shift towards a “more curated, higher-quality offer” across Queensway, Westbourne Grove and Porchester Road. As of today, independent businesses still account for 68 per cent of all retails across the neighbourhood, while Whole Foods’ opening date remains unconfirmed by the council.

Emma Ward, 47, a long-time resident in the area, commented: “Waitrose and Whole Foods have a more polished appearance, but none of the colours that these little traditional shops have. The community needs them as much as they need us.”

Meanwhile, the redevelopment of Queensway Market has already affected traders. According to Hyphen, some of the 40 family-run businesses secured extensions to remain until November 2026, while others had already left in May. With some of the retails’ deadlines approaching, the coming months could be final for the future of Bayswater’s independent retail scene.

For The Westminster Post

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