Tooting businessmen are joining forces to oppose a new Tesco, due to open Tooting.

Gavin Xavier, owner of Christin newsagents, started a petition last week protesting against the Mitcham Road store which will open on a site currently occupied by Smith Bros furniture shop.

Tesco takes over the lease in November and the new store is expected to be a small Tesco Express or Tesco Metro.

Mr Xavier has gathered more than 50 signatures from traders concerned about their businesses and has also written to Gordon Brown.

He believes the opening of a new Tesco will hit independent traders hard. But a Tesco spokesman said the new store need not force other shops out.

Mr Xavier said: "It is going to undermine our businesses. We can't compete with Tesco. They have got buying power that I don't have. I get a loaf of bread from my suppliers for 89p, they sell a loaf for 69p."

"On Sunday, we do £600 of grocery sales. That will all go," he added.

Tej Daffu, owner of Budgens in Mitcham Road, said: "It is the corporate giants getting their paws everywhere. I don't know why they can't be content with their superstores and leave the little trade.

"It is almost as if the world is just going to become Tesco and Asda. Everybody's going to be affected," he added.

A Tesco spokesman said: "The retail sector is fiercely competitive and shops of all sizes can thrive in a really buoyant market.

"We offer products at great prices, but we know customers vote with their feet and go elsewhere if we are unable to offer good customer services, quality and convenience."

Nick Smith, store manager at Smith Bros, said its main store, also on Mitcham Road, would remain open.