Popular Derry coffee shop and restaurant forced to close due to 'rising costs'

Derry coffee shop and restaurant Bron has announced it 'can no longer survive the rising costs' and will close this week.

In a Facebook post owner Connor Allen said closing the business was one of the toughest choices he's ever made but it was taking too much of a toll on his mental health.

“It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I am announcing the closure of Brøn Bishop Street, with our final day trading this Sunday 21st January," he said.

“This decision, without a doubt, has been one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever had to make. The last few years have been tough. The business survived covid and re-opening after covid, but can no longer survive the the rising costs and tight margins that small businesses are facing and being crippled by.

“In recent months it began to affect my own health & wellbeing. It’s heartbreaking, the team are gutted and we’re a mixed bag of emotions right now.”

He went on the thank the people of Derry for their support through the years from customers, local businesses, our suppliers to their staff.

“The support, loyalty, and genuine friendships I’ve made with people both locally and from afar are what made Brøn special. There are no words to express how grateful myself and the team are for the smiles, laughter, and memories we’ve made. So for that, thank you.

“Bron 2 Go and Bron Bay will remain open, so it’s not all bad! You’ll still be able to get your coffee fix at these two locations.”

Anyone who currently has vouchers for the Bishop's street coffee shop can use them before it closes or at Bron 2 Go and Bron Bay after Sunday.