Bakeries close as too much dough is asked for in rent
Two bakeries will not reopen after the Christmas and new year break as they have been forced to close because of what the owners claim is a crippling rent increase and the non-renewal of a lease.
Brick House Bread had two bakeries, one in Zenoria Street in East Dulwich and in Bleinheim Grove in Peckham, but will be closing both in a shock announcement for customers.
Fergus and Sharmin Jackson said on their website: “It is with very heavy hearts that Sharm and I have to announce that we have decided not to reopen Brick House after Christmas.
“This may come as quite a shock, but behind the scenes we have found ourselves in the unfortunate situation of facing the loss of both of our premises within a couple of months of each other.
“A crippling rent increase is forcing us out of East Dulwich, and our landlords in Peckham have decided not to renew our lease when it expires in February.
“We thought that we had found a solution to move to a new premise around the corner, but expensive and protracted negotiations combined with the timing of losing BH Peckham mean the numbers for us to carry on just don’t stack up.
“It’s a bitter pill to swallow but having looked at all the options we feel like our hands are tied and this is our only option.
“To say that we’re heartbroken would be an understatement. Over the past eight years we have poured everything in to Brick House to make it a success, and to for it to come to an end in a way that has felt very much out of our control is extremely upsetting.
“As for what’s next, we don’t really know. As anyone working in hospitality will tell you, this business is hard and involves lots of personal sacrifice, so we are looking forward to spending a bit more time together as a family and getting some rest.
“We would like to thank our customers and staff past and present for their support and commitment.
“One of the greatest parts of running Brick House has been the people we’ve met along the way, from the wholesale accounts we’ve had since we started, to the people who have worked for us and become friends, and the customers who come though the doors every day. It’s been a privilege.”
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