Sadly adding to the number of closures happening across Greater Manchester, the renowned Chocolate Cafe in Ramsbottom has announced that it will be closing its doors. The news of the much-loved cafe’s closure has come as a shock to both residents and visitors with it having been the epicentre of the town home to the annual chocolate festival for 15 years.
Owner, Philip Hargreaves, announced the news with a post on social media, saying the cost of living crisis was “hitting us at both ends”. The Chocolate Cafe in Ramsbottom has seen goods and energy increase by 40% and “in some cases doubled”, leading the business to make a sad decision regarding its future. The cafe said its website for orders would remain open until Wednesday 26th April and gift vouchers would be honoured until then.
The cafe on Bolton Street, which first opened in 2008, was a go-to spot for those with a sweet tooth in both Ramsbottom and afar. The cafe offered an assortment of chocolate bars in exciting flavours and tasty toppings (all made in their warehouse in Bury) as well as selling chocolate pizzas, boxes of truffles and hot chocolate kits. The business even launched a Manchester-themed chocolate selection box with chocolates inspired by Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls and the classic Manchester tart.
The Chocolate Cafe not only provided chocolate to enjoy at home but upstairs in their dining area visitors could tuck into a range of savoury brunch dishes, pancakes, waffles, bakes and a tasting board showcasing their range of chocolate in multiple dessert forms. Their decadent chocolate fondue and hot chocolates with all the trimmings (whipped cream and marshmallows galore) were also a hit with customers.
The social media post read: “I’ve been avoiding writing this post, as it means the end and I’ve been unsure if I’ve had the strength. But with the heaviest of hearts and tears rolling in my eyes, we must announce we are closing. It’s not news that hospitality is on the brink of collapse and despite every effort we just can’t continue.
“The cost of living crisis is hitting us at both ends, our much-loved customers have less in their pockets and goods and energy have increased by 40 per cent, and in some cases doubled. It’s just not sustainable.
“Our team have done some wonderful things and I’m so proud of what you have done and despite our online business growing at an incredible rate, it is just not enough to support the hospitality side of our business.
“Our online business will be open till Wednesday, so if you want your last chance to get your favourite chocolate fix, act now. Please! We are exploring ways to keep the chocolate business alive but for now it’s goodbye. I’d like to thank the wonderful staff. I’m heartbroken for you and our suppliers, and our amazing customers.”