Ballymoney has suffered it’s first blow from the Reval 2020, as a popular Main Street business has chosen to shut its door’s.
Simply @ the Jug broke the news to their staff on Thursday that they had no option to close due the the hefty burden on the business from a 20% increase on the business rates, after the recent Reval2020 figures.
A statement from the business owners reads:
“After 20 years of business in Main Street Chris and I have decided to lock the doors for a final time .
“We have had lots of ups & downs but we want to thank all our lovely staff , customers , family & friends who have supported us.
“Family comes first and we feel life is passing us by and want to spend quality time with kids . Your health is your wealth and the older we get we realise this .
“In the mean time we are planning to move from Main Street to a manufacturing site to continue baking. As you all know this has been my passion.
“Our final decision was the rise of rates in town. Main Street property will be up for sale in the coming weeks . This has been a massive decision for our family and we want to say a big Thankyou.”
Cllr John McAuley and friends of the owner’s has spoken of his sadness at the businesses closure:
“Sad day for Ballymoney..
“Unfortunately it comes of no surprise to me that the Reval 2020 rates programme has claimed its first local casualty with the closure of Simply @ The Jug.
“The impact of the busines revaluations by LPS has been well documented locally, and Ballymoney has been hit extremely hard with huge increases.
“Coupled with yet another NMW increase on the horizon in April 2020, business are going to struggle and I fear that this could be the first of many proprietors to decide enough is enough.
“It’s time for the Government to step back and face reality, they need to help our high streets, not hinder them.
“I have known Chris and Cheryl a long time and can assure them that this is a sad day for Ballymoney.
“Having spoken at length with them, I fully understand their decision and wish them the very best of luck both in a personal capacity and with the Bakery division as they start a new chapter in business.”
Despite the closure of the retail side of the cafe and bakers, Simply will continue its wholesale operations, supplying to other business. Their range is now available in EuroSpar on John Street.
Unfortunately due to Simply at the Jug closing, we have had no option but to change our competition giveaway prize, details available here. All enteries already submitted will still be valid.
