A MUCH-LOVED Carlisle eatery will be closing its doors as it becomes another business to fall victim to the cost-of-living crisis.
COM-FOR-T street eats at the Atlas Works in Denton Holme, which was known for pushing the boundaries of the imagination when it came to creating mouth-watering grub, will be closing its doors after seven-and-a-half years.
Owner Alan Simpson said they have been "squeezed" out of the business by the cost-of-living crisis and with people being a bit more careful about what they're spending.
"It's really tough being a small business at the moment, we're stuck in the middle of our costs and energy bills but knowing everyone's household bills are also rising, everyone has less cash to spend," he said.
The business, which is also known for catering weddings, events and private hire work, said it's 'impossible' to try to quote for events six months or even two years in advance - especially with food prices constantly increasing.
The owner, who has been in the food industry for 23 years, said small businesses like his are having to regularly check-in on each other just to offer support through what has undoubtedly been a difficult time.
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"Honestly no one has any idea how much COM-FOR-T means to me, we've accomplished a million times more than I ever thought possible.
"We're extremely well loved in the city and beyond.
"If being loved equalled money in the tills we would have no problem whatsoever.
"I have a whole army of behind-the-scene helpers, and supporters, as well as the girls you see in the shop, and a whole bunch of great small business neighbours at Atlas Works, the landlord team has been epic - I'm so grateful for all the support and times we've had over the years," he said.
Alan is looking at potentially selling the unit, with all the equipment included - with potentially even passing over some of his spectacular recipes.
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