Another Dublin cafe, Little Honey in Loughlinstown, is set to close its doors after three-and-a-half years in business due to rising costs and declining foot traffic. The cafe, which is a take-away coffee and cake business and an extension of Rustic Honey in Cherrywood, will cease operations on Saturday, September 14.
Owners Anna and Diego made the difficult decision to close Little Honey citing the unsustainable cost of living increases and a drop in customer footfall. Despite the closure, Rustic Honey in Cherrywood will remain open and continue to offer a full cafe experience, including brunch.
In a statement, Rustic Honey expressed their gratitude to everyone who supported the Loughlinstown location. They also confirmed that the bakery and offices at the location will remain open for the foreseeable future. The closure of Little Honey is a bittersweet moment for Anna and Diego, who expressed their sadness but also excitement for the growth and future of Rustic Honey.
Rising Costs and Declining Foot Traffic
The closure of Little Honey highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in Dublin, particularly in the food and beverage industry. Rising costs, including rent, utilities, and ingredients, have put a strain on the profitability of cafes and restaurants. At the same time, declining foot traffic has made it difficult for businesses to attract and retain customers.
Anna and Diego’s decision to close Little Honey is a reflection of the tough economic climate facing businesses in Dublin. They cited massive increases in prices from suppliers as a major factor contributing to the closure. Additionally, many customers who previously frequented Little Honey have now chosen to visit Rustic Honey in Cherrywood instead, further impacting the cafe’s viability.
Community Support and Gratitude
Despite the challenges faced by Little Honey, Anna and Diego expressed their appreciation for the support they received from the Loughlinstown community. The outpouring of support and patronage from local residents was instrumental in sustaining the business for over three years. The closure of Little Honey marks the end of an era, but the memories and relationships built with customers will always be cherished.
As the owners of Rustic Honey, Anna and Diego are looking towards the future with optimism and a renewed focus on their wholesale bakery and Cherrywood cafe. The decision to close Little Honey was not taken lightly, but it was necessary to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of their business. The closure of Little Honey serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the competitive food and beverage industry.
Looking Ahead
As Little Honey prepares to close its doors for the final time, Anna and Diego are filled with mixed emotions. They are grateful for the support of the community and the opportunities that running the cafe provided. While saying goodbye to Little Honey is difficult, they are excited for the next chapter of Rustic Honey and the growth that lies ahead.
In the ever-changing landscape of Dublin’s food and beverage scene, businesses like Little Honey face both challenges and opportunities. The closure of the cafe serves as a reminder of the importance of community support, adaptability, and resilience in the face of adversity. As Rustic Honey continues to thrive in Cherrywood, the memories and experiences of Little Honey will always hold a special place in the hearts of Anna, Diego, and their loyal customers.
