CLEETHORPES MP Martin Vickers said Tesco's "name is mud" in Immingham after it shelved its long-awaited new store in the town.
Mr Vickers spoke with Tesco property chief Steve Rigby in the wake of the retailer's shock announcement.
He said the company had pledged to do all it can to find a new tenant for the recently-completed Kennedy Way store.
The MP, whose constituency includes Immingham, said: "He tells me the bus service to the firm's other store in Grimsby will continue and they will provide the bus service for as long as people use it.
"They said they will do all they can to work to find a new tenant, even if that means handing it over to a rival supermarket such as Asda or Morrisons. That would not stop them. They will work with all parties as soon as possible. They are tied into an agreement and have a 15-year lease, so it is in their interest to find someone quickly.
"Tesco recognise their name is mud, after I pointed it out to them. But they are genuine in wanting to do all they can. They are committed to the site for 15 years, so there is pressure on them to find a new tenant."
Meanwhile, residents have continued to give their reaction to the news.
Mary Clark said: "They have messed the people of Immingham about. I think with Poundstretcher, B&M plus Aldi's, Immingham will have a good shopping outlet. It is a shame Tesco could not see the Immingham shop as an asset but people will vote with their feet."
Moira Dobbs said: "It's disgusting. I will personally never set foot in a Tesco store again."
Elizabeth Jobling said: "I for one will boycott Tesco. Immingham has had a raw deal."
Sharon French said: "If Tesco are paying rates on the building they are going to lose more money. Surely it's better to cut their losses and hand it to the community."
