Rusty’s Cafe in Mill Street, Wantage, opened to much excitement on September 21, 2024. However, just a year in, the business faced challenges common across the hospitality industry.
A statement from Rusty’s shared: “It’s with mixed emotions that we announce Rusty’s Café will be closing its doors on Sunday, September 28. A heartfelt thank you to Michelle, Sue, and our amazing team for their dedication — from early mornings to countless hours of pouring coffee and serving with a smile.
We’re so grateful to all of our loyal customers who’ve supported us over this last year, with a very special mention to Lord Mick, whose presence has been part of the heart of Rusty’s. Sadly, it’s not just us. The whole hospitality sector is facing tough times and heading in the same direction.
We’ve chosen to close before the winter months, which are particularly difficult for small, independent cafés like ours. It has been a true joy to serve this community, and we will always treasure the memories shared within these walls.”
The hospitality sector has encountered difficulties following last autumn’s budget, which introduced increases in National Insurance and the minimum wage. These changes aimed to raise £25bn per year by 2029, as stated by government officials, though the decision was said not to be taken lightly.
Customers expressed their disappointment regarding the cafe’s closure. Liam Cummins commented: “Another small business in Wantage bites the dust. Really sorry to hear this. It seems impossible for anyone to follow their dreams of building a business these days.”
Cheryl Dawson added: “Sorry to hear this as it is such a lovely cafe, but I can understand in the current climate. Good luck to all the team in the next part of their journey.”
Christine Winney also mentioned: “So sorry to hear this, I had a lovely lunch today and in the past. It is tough times for small businesses.”
A Treasury spokesperson noted: “We are a pro-business government. 380,000 jobs have been created since the start of this Parliament, and business confidence is at a 10-year high, as reported in a recent Lloyds Bank survey. The tax decisions made at last year’s budget enable us to invest in the NHS, cut waiting lists, and provide wage increases, fulfilling the priorities of the British people.”
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