One of Wishaw town centre’s most popular cafes has decided to shut up shop.
The Avenue announced on social media late last week that it was closing its doors for the final time after nine years of feeding the town’s folk.
In a lengthy post on its Facebook page, The Avenue, which was run by Alan McCann, stated: “We opened in July 2013 on a shoestring budget and helped by friends and family.
“We quickly established ourselves as a popular and new addition to Wishaw Main Street at a time when the Streetscape project was running behind.
“We persevered, tried new things and made lots of new family members along the way - both customers and staff! The Avenue Family.
“Things were going great and then two years ago, COVID happened.
“Being honest, the first year was great for us.
“Deliveries were the staple with everybody being at home and it kept us going.
“Fast forward a year and along came rising costs associated with Brexit and COVID such as stock, utilities, packaging and more.
“We weathered the storm until most restrictions were lifted but at what should have been the best time for us, more energy increases, war in Ukraine pushing costs up even further due to imported ingredients (flour and oil) and with a lower footfall in the town, the time has come to stop struggling, stop stressing and start getting our lives back.
“This has not been an easy decision to make and not one we ever envisaged having to even contemplate. But, unfortunately with all factors taken into account there doesn’t appear to be any other viable options.
“We would rather go out on a high on our terms, than be forced into closure and financial ruin.”
The closure of The Avenue is a further blow to the town centre just a week after it was confirmed Lidl would be moving its store from its current base in Roberts Street to a new site near the Heathery roundabout on the outskirts of the town.
The Avenue’s post thanked a whole host of current and former staff members adding: “We are so proud of you all and whilst we are not in contact with everyone.
“You will always be family and we will always be grateful for your contributions and the memories!
“So many of you have went on to do wonderful amazing things and my heart bursts when I see your achievements!”
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