Well-known artisan Cornish bakery Baker Tom's has announced the closure of its high street shops in Falmouth, Wadebridge and Penzance after more than two decades of retail trading.
Baker Tom’s Bread said the decision had been made to focus on its “successful” wholesale operation, which supplies businesses across the south west.
Founder Tom Hazzledine described the move as “difficult”, citing rising costs facing independent food businesses.
“Like many independent food businesses across the UK, we have faced significant increases in the cost of ingredients, energy and operating our shops, alongside rising high-street rental costs,” he said.
“While we have worked hard to avoid change for as long as possible, we have made the difficult decision to focus on our thriving wholesale operation, based out of our bakery in Pool.”
As a result, the company’s retail sites in Falmouth, Wadebridge and Penzance have now closed.
However, the firm confirmed its Pool bakery on Wilson Way will remain open, with a retail shop and takeaway continuing to operate Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 3pm and Saturdays from 8.30am to 1pm.
Customers will also still be able to order products online for home delivery or collection from the Pool site. Baker Tom’s goods will continue to be stocked by independent retailers, farm shops and markets across Cornwall and beyond, as well as being supplied to cafés, pubs and restaurants.
Mr Hazzledine said supporting staff affected by the closures was a key priority.
“Our priority throughout this transition is supporting our committed team. We are working closely with every affected employee to offer an alternative role within the business, where suitable opportunities are available,” he said.
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He also paid tribute to customers and staff who had supported the business over the years.
“I would like to sincerely thank every single one of our customers and retail team members over the years who have supported Baker Tom’s Bread shops. Our customers have made Baker Tom’s what it is today, and many have been with us since the very beginning. We are incredibly grateful for their loyalty, friendship and support over the years.”
Despite the closures, he said the change marked “the beginning of an exciting new chapter” for the company.
“We look forward to continuing doing what we love best – creating and delivering high-quality artisan bread and baked goods for our valued customers in Cornwall and beyond,” he added.
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