Celebrity Chef Explains Reasons Behind Wiltshire Restaurant Closure
A celebrity chef has shared insights into the sudden closure of his only Wiltshire restaurant in an exclusive interview. Rick Stein, a renowned chef, presenter, and restaurateur, owns a chain of popular restaurants across the UK and has authored several cookbooks.
Background of the Wiltshire Restaurant
Stein opened his first Wiltshire restaurant in Marlborough in 2016, which became his sixth restaurant in England under the Rick Stein brand. The restaurant was known for serving some of Stein’s signature dishes, such as Dover sole a la meunière and turbot hollandaise.
Reasons for Closure
On October 5, the Marlborough restaurant closed unexpectedly. Speaking with the Wiltshire Gazette and Herald about his new book and upcoming TV appearance, Stein revealed that the closure was forced by economic difficulties and a shrinking customer base.
“We decided to close because there just wasn’t enough business. We’re not going under, but we are having to restructure our business just because of the hard time we’re going through.”
“The whole hospitality industry is suffering. Personally, I think it’s a mixture of the government’s last budget and the quite grim economic time we have been going through.”
Current Business Outlook
Stein emphasized that closing the Marlborough location was not his choice, but a necessary step amid ongoing challenges in the hospitality sector.
Despite this setback, Stein reassures that his wider business remains intact, as he aims to adapt and restructure in response to the tough economic climate.
Author's Summary
Rick Stein's decision to close his Wiltshire restaurant reflects the widespread struggles in hospitality amid economic hardship and shifting government policies.