UK bakery in business for 75 years issues store closures warning | UK | News
A popular UK bakery chain that has been operating for 75 years has warned it may be forced to close some stores if footfall does not increase. The boss of Dundee’s Clark’s Bakery has claimed business owners have been “abandoned” by Dundee City Council and local authority policies are hurting business Messenger.
Clark’s Bakery, a third-generation family business with around 130 employees, operates eight stores in Dundee; these include its famous 24-hour bakery on Annfield Road and an additional store in Arbroath. Jonathan Clark said he was concerned some of its branches could become unsustainable in the coming years. Some of its shops are surrounded by empty units.
He believes the reduction in on-street parking and the introduction of parking charges has deterred customers from visiting the high street, which has negatively affected business.
While the Lochee High Street store was once among its most profitable locations, it has since declined and is now one of the weakest performers, according to the outlet. Despite investing nearly £70,000 in the premises, Mr Clark remains hesitant about renewing his lease after five years.
he said Messenger: “It pains me to think about having to close stores, but if foot traffic continues to decrease I may have to.
“Lochee High Street is unrecognizable these days. With so little left, our customers have less reason to come to the high street – and when they do, they find it difficult to park. Something needs to change before it’s too late.”
The family-run business has grown to nine stores and now employs more than 100 people.
To maintain quality and consistency across its range, it has even set up its own butchers, ensuring a reliable supply of meat for its popular pies and savories.
Its 24-hour flagship store has attracted particular attention, once being voted the best place for a late-night “drunk meal” in Scotland, highlighting its appeal to customers at all hours.
The menu offers a wide selection to appeal to a wide range of tastes, from favorites like sausage rolls and pizzas to sweet treats like fondant fantasies and traditional imperial biscuits.
