Pimlico traders fear for their future after Tesco announced plans to open a new store in Lupus Street.
Shopkeepers are concerned that Lupus Street, which is mainly made up of independent shops, could soon become home to a Tesco Express, after the super-market chain lodged a planning application for an outlet with Westminster Council earlier this month.
The news has spread panic in the shopping street, with some traders planning to move away from the area to escape the threat.
Others fear it may spell the end of their historic businesses.
Safdar Ali believes the future of his store Standard Food, which his family has run since 1978, hangs in the balance.
He said: "Tesco would be selling the same kind of things that we do, so it's definitely going to affect our trade. Our shop is very close to where the Tesco would be, and we don't feel happy about it at all."
Kashif Sheikh is considering a move after hearing the mega-chain may be opening next door to his shop KF Stores.
He said: "It's going to kill my business. I've been here for three years, but I think I will have to close my shop, because we sell similar things to Tesco."
The owner of Norris Newsagent, who did not want to be named, added: "We can't compete. Everyone knows the name of Tesco and they will go straight there. We have been struggling in the recession as it is, but when this comes, we will not have any more customers. I will have to move if it comes."
The Tesco Express would be built on the site of numbers 89-95 Lupus Street, which is currently home to the empty Lupus Newsagents, together with W Conner Grocers and a Costcutter.
If the application to Westminster Council is successful, Tesco plans to extend the basement and ground floor at the back of the shop.
A Tesco Express spokesman said: "We find our stores actually tend to attract people, thereby bringing economic benefits to an area.
"The retail sector is very competitive, but there are plenty of examples where independent shops can exist successfully side by side with larger retailers."
