Burger Freakz, a popular burger restaurant, has announced it will stop trading at its Mansel Street base in Swansea city centre on Sunday, August 16, and relocate to a new premises in Blaenymaes. The move comes with a damning assessment of the city centre's current state.
In a statement, those behind the restaurant described the decision as a “tough decision” and said a lot of happy memories had been made trading in the current location. They cited rising rates and overheads, a struggle in hospitality during the summer, and a loss of foot traffic as reasons for the move.
Reasons behind the move
The statement read: “After a lot of thought and tough decisions we've had to make the last few weeks, we have made the decision to close Burger Freakz, 29 Mansel Street. It was a tough decision to make and something we would've preferred not to do, but with the rates/overhead of the city and the struggle in hospitality at this moment, especially during the summer, it just wasn't financially making sense anymore.”
It added: “The city itself is losing foot traffic by the week, businesses are closing down all over the city, from small independents to big names. With a team of local people who have grown up here, it's genuinely worrying to think what will actually be left of our city centre within the next 18 months.”
New premises and opportunities
Despite the closure, the restaurant is not shutting down entirely. The statement explained: “But we're not closing, we're relocating. While going through some ups and downs over the last few weeks and questioning this decision, we got offered an opportunity for a second shop in an area some people may question, because of the name/reputation it has, but an area that has a massive community and is already our most popular postcode area - SA5.”
The new shop will have 25 to 30 seats and new delivery areas in Penllergaer, Gowerton, Gorseinon, Clase and Morriston. The statement said: “There will be lower overheads, more opportunity to give back through deals and offers, and a bigger and better Burger Freakz.”
Gratitude and next steps
The statement expressed gratitude to customers and staff: “But we won't ever forget the amazing memories we've had in 29 Mansel Street. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to meet some amazing people from staff to customers, who have become friends to this day from the walk-ins, deliveries, collections, locals - we really appreciate your support. We hope to still catch you at the new premises and that you continue to support us.”
Sunday, August 16 is the last day of trading at 29 Mansel Street. The opening date for the new shop will be revealed this week. The statement concluded: “Remember, this is the end of 29 Mansel Street, not Burger Freakz. Next stop SA5 5LN.”
