Loyal customers made their way to several branches of a family-run bakery chain to clear the shelves on its final day of trading.
Burnley-based Oddie’s, which was set up in 1920, closed its doors for the last time today (Saturday, January 11) after failing to find a buyer.
In November, the fourth generation put the company up for sale due to soaring costs and dwindling customer numbers. A buyer did come forward, but pulled out at the eleventh hour.
The firm was looking to secure an urgent rescue deal to avoid closing all 13 locations and employed Azets the UK top ten accounting and advisory firm, alongside Brabners Solicitors, in a bid to secure its future.
But an offer was not forthcoming – and Oddie’s final day of trading saw customers make their way around several branches in a bid to stock up on their favourite baked goods.
Stephen Perry (main image) snapped up the last three loaves at the Brownside Road shop with the shelves almost bare and staff only accepting cash payments.
Elaine Howard could be one of the bakery’s longest-standing customers having shopped at Oddie’s since she moved to Burnley in the 1960s. “It’s such a shame,” she said.
Elaine Howard outside Oddie’s
“We live in Cliviger which is 10 minutes away but we like to come here on a Saturday for a pie. My husband’s favourite is steak whereas I like the meat and potato.
“We also love the custards. Years ago they used to do a lot more cakes.”
Simon was walking past the shop in Brownside Road with his dog when he spotted the signs revealing Oddie’s was closing for good. “I was just walking past and thought I’d get a loaf,” he said. “I was born up the road and remember the shop well.”
Simon with one of the last loaves of bread
Meanwhile James Mcdonough, whose aunt has worked at another branch of Oddie’s for 35 years, said his kids “love the flapjacks”. James drove to four shops yesterday (Friday January 10) to stock up on his favourites.
“I spent about £30,” he said. “My kids love the flapjacks and the gingerbread men. The corned beef pasties are also really good.”
James was one of the last customers to visit the Brownside Road shop before it closed
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