End of an Era: Coughlans Bakery, Co-Owned by Comedian Romesh Ranganathan, Closes After Nearly a Century
A popular bakery chain co-owned by a well-known British comedian has sadly announced its closure after nearly a century in operation. Owner Sean Coughlan shared the heartbreaking news in a video message, citing high fuel prices and tax increases as the reasons for the closure. The decision has deeply affected Sean and his family's business, leading to an outpouring of support from fans and customers.
Coughlans Bakery, founded in 1937 by Jack Coughlan and passed down through three generations, has been a beloved fixture with 31 locations across the UK. Known for its wide range of vegan options made from quality British ingredients, the bakery has garnered a loyal following over the years. Comedian Romesh Ranganathan joined the company as a co-owner in 2024, impressed by the bakery's plant-based products and ethos.
Despite the support from fans and the efforts of the team, Coughlan made the difficult decision to close the bakery on June 30. The impact of rising fuel prices and new national insurance charges, amounting to an extra £20,000 per week, proved to be unsustainable for the business. Sean expressed his gratitude to the customers, team members, and Romesh for their support and dedication over the years.
The closure of Coughlans Bakery marks the end of an era for the family-run business that has been a cherished part of many customers' lives. The legacy of quality baked goods and community spirit will be missed by all who have enjoyed the treats and warm atmosphere of the bakery. Despite the challenges faced, the outpouring of support and love from customers and fans is a testament to the impact the bakery has had on the community.