West Yorkshire coffee shop chain Merrie England has closed all six of its sites in Huddersfield, Halifax and Brighouse, bringing an end to 60 years of trading. The group, founded in 1966, blamed a “sustained increase” in costs and government policy for its decision.
Cost Pressures and Reduced Footfall
The chain cited rising energy bills, business rates and staff wages as key factors, alongside a decline in customer visits and spending. It said it had been forced to increase prices to offset the higher costs, but many customers were unable or unwilling to pay the new prices.
The company also noted the impact of last year’s increase in national insurance contributions, which has particularly affected hospitality firms.
Statement from the Chain
In a message on its website, the group said: “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.”
It added: “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 chain concluded: “After 60 years of serving our customers, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us over the decades.”
A Local Institution
Merrie England was known for its Tudor-themed cafes and classic dishes such as teacakes and apple pie.
