Popular high street food chain closes all shops 'with heavy heart' after 14 years

A popular high street food chain, owned by a Great British Bake Off star, has announced the closure of all of its shops. The Pudding Stop, run by former contestant Johnny Shepherd, has shut down all of its stores across Hertfordshire.

After 14 years of business, The Pudding Stop announced it has shut all of his shops "with a heavy heart". Brainchild of Mr Shepherd the bakery operated locations in St Albans, Harpenden, Radlett and Redbourn. In a statement the popular store said they had "worked tirelessly to keep The Pudding Stop going" but ultimately their efforts failed.

In a statement posted to Facebook, the bakery said: "It's no secret that the past few years have brought significant challenges, and throughout that time, we've worked tirelessly to keep The Pudding Stop going."

"It is with a heavy heart that we have made the difficult decision to close the business," the post added.

"As of this morning, all locations will remain closed until further notice.

"Thank you for your support and loyalty - it has meant the world to us."

Just last year Mr Shepherd made a desperate plea on social media saying that things were not going well. As a result he had to make one part-time baker redundant and said goodbye to a few sweet treats, such as the cherry pie.

At the the bake off star said that problems started during Covid and ever since interest rate increases, energy cost increases and inflation all hit the business hard.

In an updated statement on social media the bakery announced that its closure has left 30 employees without jobs.

The follow up post read: "Sadly this means that we have 30 employees now looking for a new job. Some have been with us for over 10 years. It is a devastating situation be in.

"If you run a restaurant, a cafe, a deli, a bakery or any other local business and you're looking for staff - I have a list of the best people you could ever employee. Bakers, baristas, shop team members, front of house, delivery drivers and more! Please contact me johnny@thepuddingstop.com and I'll put you in touch."

The Pudding Stop first launched in 2011 with a "Pudmobile" van outside St Albans City station. Just two years later, Mr Shepherd opened the first permanent shop thanks to an outpouring of support from loyal customers.