Pizza giant Domino’s could be sizing up a former Blockbuster video shop as its next tilt at setting up a Forfar outlet.
But the empty premises is directly next door to one of the town’s busiest and longest established takeaways.
And its owner says it would be “a bit cheeky” of the global chain to muscle in with the Castle Street move.
Dino’s Kebab House owner Ali Kaya fears it could cost jobs in his 20-year-old business already struggling to compete against the backdrop of the cost-of-living and energy crisis.
The global chain is remaining tight-lipped on the matter.
Plans lodged with council
The Domino’s speculation has been heightened by a planning application newly lodged with Angus Council.
It comes after the firm last month shelved an appeal against a refusal to convert a former Mace grocery store into a third Angus branch.
Angus Council planners rejected the St James Road proposal because it was surrounded by housing.
The latest application seeks a change of use from Class 1 retail at 67-69 Castle Street to pizza takeaway and delivery.
The shop was a Blockbuster store before becoming a Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland charity shop.
But it closed when the pandemic struck and has latterly been empty and for let.
Dino’s in the dark
Dino’s owner Ali Kaya says he is yet to receive neighbour notification of the planning bid.
“We have been here since 2002 and have put our whole lives into this business,” the 26-year-old said.
His wider family operate successful takeaways in Brechin and Montrose.
“All I’ve done is work to build up Dino’s a make it a success,” he added.
“When we first set up people would come in, place their order and then go next door to Blockbuster to choose their dvd.
“All we have done is try to serve and support the community.
“There have been so many other businesses opened up in Forfar, everyone is trying to take a bit.
“But it’s a bit cheeky to apply for a place right next door.
“We have five self-employed drivers and 11 full or part-time staff.
“It’s a seven-day business, but I’d worry about shifts and things if another business was to open next door.
“You always see business go down when another takeaway opens.”
Domino’s said they were not able to comment when asked if the firm is behind the Forfar plan.
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