Three restaurants across Greater Manchester have shut down in less than 24 hours, dealing a severe blow to the region's hospitality sector. The Vurger Co, Zing and Zest, and Canvas all closed their doors this week, citing soaring costs and plunging sales.
The Vurger Co, a plant-based fast food chain, announced its closure on February 21, blaming 'soaring' costs and 'plunging' sales post-pandemic. The co-owners described the last few years as 'total turmoil' and urged the government to reduce VAT, reform business rates, cut National Insurance, and provide energy support.
Zing and Zest, an Indian restaurant in Ashton-under-Lyne, closed after 12 years due to rising energy and trading costs. Co-owner Habibi Rahman thanked customers for their loyalty, saying the cost increases made survival 'very difficult'.
Canvas, a late-night venue on Oxford Road, also shut suddenly. Opened in July 2022, it was known for live music and community events. A sign in the window directs inquiries to a business advisory firm.
The closures highlight the ongoing crisis in hospitality, with many businesses struggling amid inflation and reduced consumer spending. The Vurger Co's co-owners stated, 'To say that the industry is in crisis doesn’t even come close right now.'
