Family-Run Bakery Chain Collapses After 89 Years
Coughlans Bakery, a family-run chain that had been operating since 1937, has announced the closure of all 31 stores with immediate effect after entering liquidation. The business, part-owned by comedian Romesh Ranganathan, ceased trading on Tuesday, leaving employees and customers devastated.
Managing Director Sean Coughlan confirmed the news in a video message, stating that the decision was driven by spiralling operational costs that made it impossible to continue. "Gutted isn't the word," Coughlan said, describing the closure as "devastating" and deeply emotional for the entire team.
Stores Across South London, Surrey, Kent, and West Sussex Affected
The bakery operated locations across South London, Surrey, Kent, and West Sussex. The full list of closures includes stores in Addiscombe, Banstead, Beckenham, Caterham, Coulsdon, Chipstead, Crawley, Croydon, Dorking, Epsom, Forestdale, Godstone, Horley, Horsham, Lingfield, Kingswood, Nork, Old Coulsdon, Oxted, Purley, Reigate, Stoneleigh, Wallington, Warlingham, Westerham, and West Wickham.
Coughlan thanked staff and customers for their loyalty over the years, calling the closure a heartbreaking end to a nearly 90-year legacy. The company had been a staple in local communities, known for its traditional baked goods.
Spiralling Costs and Economic Pressures Blamed
The collapse of Coughlans Bakery highlights ongoing challenges in the UK high street, with rising energy prices, ingredient costs, and labour expenses squeezing small and family-run businesses. The bakery had tried to adapt but ultimately could not sustain operations.
Romesh Ranganathan, who co-owned the chain, expressed his sadness on social media, sharing the video announcement and writing, "Gutted isn't the word." The closure marks the end of an era for a business that had been a familiar sight across the region for generations.
