A Derry restaurant chain has announced they have ceased trading at one of their sites after 11 years in business.
Moe Grill based at the Castledawson Roundabout, Magherafelt issued a lengthy statement on Monday to say they 'simply cannot keep trading' at the popular eatery.
Owner Darren Clarke said: "It is with deep regret that after 11 years in business, Moes Grill at Castledawson Roundabout has ceased trading from yesterday, Sunday 24th July. We are very sorry to our loyal customers for such short notice but we simply cannot keep trading due to severe chef shortages in our kitchen. We have been juggling chefs from our other locations for months now and it is no longer sustainable.
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"Firstly, we would like to thank our staff, past and present, for making our Restaurant the special, Family dining location you have made it over the years. Without you, it would not have been possible.
"It has been well documented the hospitality trade has suffered immensely over the last 2 years. Our gas & Electric bills have nearly doubled. This would be bad enough for the business but added to every other cost the business pays out increasing, it has reached the point that our business is no longer financially viable."
The popular restaurant also has establishments in Antrim and Banbridge and say these restaurants will continue to trade as normal.
He continued: "We would just like to thank all of our customers who supported us over the past 11 years. The support the Moes Group received from the local community was very special indeed. We cannot thank you enough and the area will always hold a special place in our hearts.
"Our Moes Grill Antrim & Moes Grill Banbridge sites are not affected and will continue trading as normal. Any outstanding vouchers can be used at either of these sites."
Mr Clarke also mentioned the company have a new sister business open in Antrim and urged people to support it if they can.
He added: "Lastly, we would like to give our Sister Business and new concept, Fresh Foodhall Co. a special mention. Their first day of trading was Monday 18th July at the old Redz Restaurant site at the Junction, Antrim (Call in and see us if you're passing).
"We think anyone who visits us will agree the concept is very exciting and it will be the way forward for The Moes Group as we try to diversify our Business Model due to the travesty our industry has suffered. We do hope our loyal customers understand our situation."
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