Coughlans Bakery, the family-run chain that closed in July after 89 years, is set to return under new ownership. Janes Bakery Limited, which trades as Janes Pantry, has bought the business and plans to reopen 25 stores under the Janes Pantry name.
Reopening Details
The buyout amount has not been disclosed. It is not yet clear which specific sites will reopen, nor has a reopening date been provided. However, speculation on social media suggests that the Banstead High Street branch may be among those returning, based on a claim by a former staff member, though this has not been confirmed by Janes.
Reason for Closure
The 89-year-old chain struggled financially due to rising business costs, including increases in National Insurance and the minimum wage. Former owner Sean Coughlan said at the time, 'This has affected us more than we could have ever imagined.' He added that new government rules on NI, wages, and rates hit the high street hard in April, and also cited rising fuel bills due to the conflict in Iran.
Reaction and Future Plans
The closure left customers 'utterly heartbroken,' with one Reddit user saying they 'fell to my knees.' Another commented, 'Gutted. So much better than Greggs food and now where do I go for my lunch?' Co-owner Romesh Ranganathan said 'gutted isn't the word.'
Janes Bakery CEO David Davies said, 'Coughlans has been part of local life for generations. When shops close suddenly, the impact is felt by staff, loyal customers and the wider high street. Our job now is to move quickly but responsibly: reopen viable shops under the Janes name, welcome former Coughlans' colleagues to reapply as we go, and bring the operating discipline of a heritage baker to a much-loved local bakery estate.'
The new owners are encouraging former workers to apply for jobs. Fans have welcomed the news, with some hoping that popular items like the Cornish pasty and raspberry crème brûlée croissant will return, even under the new name.
