Greater Manchester's oldest family bakery announces permanent closure

It's well known in Greater Manchester as the family run bakery that's survived two World Wars, the Covid-19 pandemic and skyrocketing energy bills, but the owners of Robinsons bakery in Failsworth have confirmed its permeant closure after failing to secure a buyer.

The bakery, which was established 159 years ago in Harpurhey before relocating to Failsworth in 1954, was put up for sale in July as they pursued other opportunities. However, they have not been able to sell the business and will be closing their doors for good on December 16.

David, who has worked in the bakery for 53 years decided its time to hang up the apron and retire back in July, while his daughter Grace, who currently runs the bakery, looked to other career opportunities. In a statement issued this morning they said they put the business up for sale due to economic crisis, 'ever-increasing' cost of energy, utilities, and 'never-ending' spiralling cost of ingredients, but had now made the 'very difficult decision' to close for good after no buyer was found.

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In a full statement, Grace Robinson wrote: "It is with great sadness I am writing this to inform you as of 16th December 2023 Robinsons Artisan Family Bakery will be closing its doors.

"We put the business up for sale earlier this year. This was due to several factors, but the overwhelming factors were the economic crisis and the ever-increasing cost of energy, utilities, and never-ending spiralling cost of ingredients.

"Sadly, as of now, we have not been able to