A BELOVED bakery chain with a 119-year history could potentially close all its branches and threaten to put 1,000 people out of work.
Oddie’s, a fourth-generation family business in Lancashire, is scrambling to secure an urgent rescue deal after a last-minute sale fell through.
Founded in 1905 by William Henry Oddie, the chain operates 13 stores in locations such as Burnley, Colne, Foulridge, Nelson, Padiham, and Todmorden, alongside a central bakery in Nelson.
The business is renowned for its traditional bread, savory pastries, and sweet treats.
Over the decades, Oddie’s has weathered monumental challenges, including two world wars, the Great Depression, and the fall of Lancashire’s cotton industry.
It also survived the COVID-19 pandemic, during which the shop rationalised its product range, staff, and outlets to adapt to changing conditions.
Despite its resilience, Oddie’s has been severely impacted by soaring energy costs, which have quadrupled, and a sharp decline in high-street footfall.
Director Lara Oddie described the situation as “heartbreaking,” emphasising the bakery’s deep roots in the community.
She said: “Over the decades, Oddie’s has been a cornerstone of the local community, but with an energy crisis quadrupling costs and fewer shoppers on the high street, we had to make the difficult decision to sell.”
But an eleventh-hour withdrawal by an unnamed prospective buyer has left the family with no choice but to consider closing its doors for good.
“This is a heartbreaking situation for us, our devoted staff, and the loyal customers in Burnley and Pendle who have cherished our unique products,” Lara added.
The company has enlisted the help of Azets, a leading accounting and advisory firm, and Brabners Solicitors to explore alternative solutions.
Tim Mills, a corporate finance partner at Azets, explained that they are actively seeking new buyers to save the business and as many jobs as possible.
The challenges faced by Oddie’s reflect broader struggles within the baking industry.
Other businesses, such as The Modern Boulangerie, which recently shut its Ramsgate shop, and Cake or Death, which has diversified its product range to combat surging chocolate prices, are also struggling to remain afloat amidst rising operational costs.
Further complicating matters are recent government measures, including increases to the National Living Wage and changes to National Insurance thresholds, which have added to the financial strain on small businesses.
The Craft Bakers Association expressed “profound disappointment” with the Autumn Budget, stating that it failed to address the needs of struggling small businesses.
For the communities in Burnley, Pendle, and beyond, Oddie’s closure would mark the end of an institution that has served generations.
“As a family firm, we have always seen ourselves as part of the local community fabric,” Lara said.
“We hope a new buyer or rescue deal will emerge to preserve the heritage of Oddie’s, but for now, the future remains uncertain.”
It comes after a family-run bakery announced it would shut its doors after 70 years in yet another blow to high streets.
Central Bakery in Leominster, Herefordshire, announced the closure in August – and it’s left loyal customers “gutted.”
The closure of the iconic bakery came “with deep sadness” and was a “very difficult and emotional” decision.
The Burke family made the announcement to heartbroken customers on Facebook, saying the pandemic, the death of David Burke and escalating costs drove it to a close.
The post also blames the dwindling footfall of the three-generation-run bakery on the development of the high street.
Central Bakery said: “After nearly 70 years of trading as Central Bakery this decision has been a very difficult and emotional one.
“We have loved being one of the focal points of Leominster and most of our customers and people of Leominster won’t remember a time without the Central Bakery being there.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for your many years of support.
“So between now and when we close, please come in and grab your favourite Central Bakery goodies whilst you can.”
