A burger joint owner has opened up about the tough decision to close his first ever business amid the cost of living crisis.
Mosh Burger quickly became a popular burger establishment located on the North Circular Road. The lively business boasted a rock n' roll theme, with its menu paying tribute to musical icons such as Thin Lizzy.
However, its success came crumbling down last week after news broke that Mosh Burger was closing with immediate effect. Its owner Alex Silva said that a combination of factors, including the energy crisis and spiralling costs, left him with no alternative but to shut up shop.
READ MORE: 'I have no option but to close my small business due to rising costs'
Alex told Dublin Live: "Hiking costs made everything so hard. It was my first business and I was really eager to get a place open. In hindsight, I may have made the wrong decision."
He explained that energy costs put a particular strain on the business. Mosh Burger received an energy bill worth a staggering €5000 back in January, which Alex knew was unsustainable.
He also said certain ingredients, such as mayonnaise and ketchup, have gone up considerably in cost since the business opened last year. He was initially paying €23 for 10 litres of mayonnaise, but the price then shot up to €32.
Alex added: "Electricity is the villain for businesses based in hospitality. The sector uses a lot of energy and it's something that the government could help us out on."
The Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme was first introduced to help businesses with soaring energy costs over the winter months. The scheme has been extended until late spring and qualifying businesses can claim up to 40% of the increases on their bills.
Mosh Burger will give up its lease on the North Circular Road and Alex will sell the burger joint's kitchen equipment. However, he will retain the brand itself and is hopeful that the business can make a comeback in the future.
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