A bakery chain that rose to fame on TikTok has confirmed it will permanently shut one of its branches, delivering disappointing news to its loyal customer base.
End of an era for Headingley bakery
Get Baked, renowned for its indulgent Bruce and Bertha chocolate cakes, has announced the closure of its Headingley, Yorkshire outlet. The shop will serve its final customers on February 28, bringing an end to its five-year run in the area.
Founder Rich Myers shared the difficult decision in a heartfelt social media statement. He explained that the initial lease required a personal guarantee, which he agreed to at the time with little to lose. However, with the lease now up for renewal, the landscape has drastically changed.
"Being busy is no longer enough"
Myers revealed that the landlord still demands a personal guarantee for the new lease, a commitment he can no longer make. This is compounded by a significant rise in rent and business rates, alongside the well-documented pressures facing the wider hospitality sector.
"Being busy is no longer enough to make most hospitality sites work," Myers stated. He described an environment where operators must "squeeze so hard" that record sales weeks become a necessity rather than a joy, stripping the fun from the business.
Gratitude amidst closure
The founder made a point of thanking the shop's devoted patrons. "I’m conscious that Headingley serves some of our most loyal and regular customers, and I am so grateful to you all for your support over the years," he said.
Despite this closure, the Get Baked brand continues. The business, which boasts thousands of followers online, still operates its popular flagship store in Manchester, which remains open to the public.
