Merrie England, which operated seven shops across Yorkshire, confirmed the news in a statement published on its website and social media channels on July 28.
The chain had venues in Halifax Borough Market, on Brighouse High Street, and in Huddersfield, serving customers with hot and cold sandwiches, soups, cakes and drinks.
‘An incredibly difficult decision’
In a statement on its website, the company said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Merrie England.
“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, reached after facing a sustained increase in the cost of goods, business rates, energy costs, and the wider rising costs associated with staffing and government policy.
“Alongside these pressures, we have also seen a reduction in footfall and customer spending, with many people understandably unable or unwilling to pay the prices that businesses now need to charge in order to survive.”
The company added: “After 60 years of serving our customers, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us over the decades.”
Jobs affected across seven shops
In a separate post on Facebook, published at 5am on July 28, Merrie England said its thoughts were with staff who had lost their jobs.
The post read: “After 60 years, this has been an incredibly difficult decision, and our thoughts are especially with the teams across our seven shops who have lost their jobs.
“We know people may have strong feelings, but we kindly ask that comments are kept respectful. There are real people, families, staff, customers and suppliers affected by this news.”
End of an era for Halifax and Brighouse customers
The closure marks the end of a familiar presence for shoppers in both Halifax and Brighouse.
Many customers will remember the cafes for their traditional menu of sandwiches, soups, cakes and drinks, with the businesses serving as meeting places for local residents, market visitors and town centre shoppers.
Website replaced with closure notice
Following the announcement, Merrie England’s website was taken offline, with the only page now accessible carrying the closure statement.
The business concluded its message by thanking customers, staff, suppliers and supporters for their loyalty over the past six decades.
It said: “We wish all our customers, friends, staff, and suppliers the very best for the future. Thank you once again for being part of our journey.”