Midlands-based bakery chain closes shop in Nottinghamshire market town after just two months - here’s why

A bakery chain has closed 12 of its 14 branches after a rise in operating costs, including one in Nottinghamshire.

Midlands-based Butterwick confirmed at the end of September that only two of its branches - in Rushden and Northampton - will remain open.

The other 12, including Butterwick’s shop in Retford, have closed with immediate effect.

Butterwick’s Retford shop opened in July, becoming the business’ first new opening since November 2024.

In a Facebook post, Butterwick’s founders Ryan and Fiona Scarborough said: “It is with deep regret that we announce the closure of all Butterwick stores with immediate effect, apart from our Rushden Lakes and Northampton St Giles locations.

“This decision has not been made lightly. Despite tireless efforts to secure all stores and protect every role, the continued rise in operating costs and significant changes in customer spending habits have left us unable to sustain the business in its current form.

“We are heartbroken for the impact this has on our incredible team members, who have worked with such passion and dedication to deliver the warm, welcoming Butterwick experience that so many of you have come to love.

“We are immensely proud of every one of them and deeply grateful for their commitment.”

The couple added that all loyalty points and gift cards remain valid and fully redeemable in Butterwick’s Rushden Lakes and Northampton St Giles stores.