TESCO'S bombshell decision to close is store in Stretford Mall was made despite the shopping centre bosses saying business is booming.
The number of shoppers visiting Stretford Mall has soared over the past 12 months.
The centre recorded nearly 500,000 extra visits last year  - an 8.5 per cent increase.
But  the supermarket giant Tesco axed its store because of declining sales figures over four or five years.
The poor sales figures have continued despite the centre generally enjoying a very successful year.
Aldi opened a store at Stretford Mall last year and that is believed to have hit custom at the Tesco Stretford Metro.
The store will close its doors for the final time in December, putting 73 jobs at risk.
Tesco says wherever it is possible to do so it will provide staff with posts at other stores.

Stretford and Urmston MP Kate Green is calling on Tesco to reconsider its decision.

She said: "I share residents' disappointment at the news that Tesco is closing its store in Stretford Mall and my thoughts are with the staff at the store who face an uncertain future.

"I've been in touch with Tesco to urge them to reconsider. Stretford residents want a vibrant town centre and this news is a real blow for our local area."

A spokesman for Stretford Mall said the news of Tesco’s closure had come as a surprise - and revealed they had been in in discussion about renewing their lease.

He added it was very disappointing to not only the centre but also for the immediate Stretford community.

“We are very disappointed to hear that Tesco plans to leave its Stretford Mall home after more than 40 years here, particularly following lease renewal conversations between both parties earlier this year.

“Despite increased footfall at the centre, a raft of new openings over the past year-and-a-half, and the confidence in Stretford Mall illustrated by a number of other tenants who have renewed their leases in that time, Tesco has made this decision as part of a strategic review.

“We continue to enjoy a good relationship with Tesco, and we will of course work with the retailer and its employees – many of whom have been our colleagues for a number of years - over the coming months.”

The deputy leader of Trafford Council, Cllr Alex Williams, said: “Trafford Council is disappointed with the decision by Tesco to close its Tesco Metro store in Stretford Mall.

"Tesco has now formally written to the council regarding the matter and have advised that it will aim to relocate staff to other sites, our business growth team will also be on hand to signpost any redundant staff to other opportunities within the borough.

"Trafford Council’s priority is to continue to work with businesses and residents to support regeneration and growth opportunities in Stretford.”