AN iconic Glasgow restaurant has announced its shock closure after 22 years.
Brian Maule at Chardon D'Or traded for the last time on Saturday night, having operated on the city's West Regent Street since 2001.
The team, led by Brian, Susan and Cal, shared an emotional statement via social media explaining the multiple 'damaging' factors which contributed to the decision, including the cost-of-living crisis and a 'lack of support'.
They thanked their customers for all of their memories over the last two decades.
They said: "It is with much sadness that we announce that tonight was our last night of Brian Maule at Chardon D'Or.
"We have tried so hard to fight against the financial burden of the new 'normal world' we live in, but it has forced our hand - for now - with immediate effect.
"Surviving through Covid, then spiralling into a cost-of-living crisis, increased home-working, plunging property values, lack of support for the hospitality sector.
"All these damaging factors, plus many more have weighed heavily on us, we tried so hard to see it through.
"For our fantastic team, whom we feel so sorry, but also for the city that we have been a part of for the last 22 years, our business can simply no longer be sustained under all these pressures.
"We leave behind something that has been very special and we are so thankful for all our customers, many [of] whom we now consider friends.
"Your support will never be forgotten - we could never have done it without you, we are grateful for everything and when the devastation has subsided, we will take great comfort from the friendships created along the way and cherish the memories."
A statement from the board at Brian Maule at Chardon D'Or read: "The considerable pressures on the hospitality industry just now and projected are well understood.
"Chardon D'Or has its full share of these with soaring food and energy costs, no more rates relief, a customer base in a cost-of-living crisis and big medium-term turnover uncertainty.
"Location though, is critical.
"At the outset, in 2001, and for the next 20 years, Chardon lay in a busy, thriving business district.
"Covid has changed all that. Many of the surrounding businesses are now closed or up for sale or let and those still open are mainly occupied on a part-time basis.
"This has had the two-fold impact of a substantial reduction in restaurant business and a depression in property values.
"Desperately, sadly, with all this coming together, the inescapable conclusion for Brian Maule and the team is that the Chardon business on West Regent Street will have to close.
"It's a sad loss for the city."
