A vegan burger bar that had been winning rave reviews in Manchester city centre has announced it will close in just two weeks time - blaming the cost of living crisis. Frost Burgers on Portland Street offers an entirely vegan menu with burgers, fries and shakes.
It opened in Manchester last year following the success of its launch site in Liverpool. But restaurant owners took to Instagram to announce the sad news that the Manchester branch will close for good on August 13, while Liverpool will remain open.
Fans were devastated by the news, and rushed to post their sadness at the announcement with many hailing them " best vegan burgers in Manchester". The closure comes just weeks after Manchester's first ever vegan fish and chip shop JJ Vish and Chips also announced its sudden closure, with owners there also blaming the cost of living crisis.
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The owners of Frost Burgers made the closure announcement with a statement on Instagram on Monday night. They urged fans to come down and enjoy a final meal over the next two weeks before the doors are closed for good.
They said: "With heavy hearts, we are devastated to have to announce the closure of our Manchester Location. Our last day of trading will be 14th August.
"Getting the chance to grow Frost Burgers was amazing, and we couldn’t be more proud of the incredible team at our Manchester branch, who have knocked it out of the park and captured what Frost Burgers is all about these last 8 months. We kept going as long as we could for them but unfortunately the multiplying costs have gotten too much to give them what they need.
"We knew expanding the business post pandemic had its risks, but with all the support our Liverpool branch had received we were confident Manchester would be a success. Then the current financial situation hit: inflation, increasing food prices, energy bills, supplies and the rapid rise of cost of living has forced us into a situation we cannot come back from.
"It’s a really hard time for any small businesses and we send our love and support to all those still fighting! Our Liverpool branch will still be open, and we will try our best to keep that floating, so your favourite burgers aren’t lost just yet.
"If you’d like to come grab a burger and hang out with us one last time over the next couple of weeks, we’d love to see you! Thank You so much to everyone for all the support, it truly means the world."
Fans and customers spoke of their "devastation" at the news. Responding to the post, @_veganaimee said: "OMG I'm actually devastated. So sorry to hear this. We'll be making the trip to Liverpool because your burgers are the best burgers we've ever had."
While @tash.wilsonn said: "This is so sad! But you should be so proud, excellent food and service, fingers crossed your Liverpool store thrives." Emma Hallows said: "It's been great having you here and your burgers are my fave in Manc easy! I've been loads. Will make sure I grab a few more before you go."
The post also drew support from other hospitality businesses across the UK. Mighty Winers in Bournemouth posted: "Sad times indeed, you're right it's a massive struggle out here at the moment. So sad to see amazing vegan businesses closing every week. It's harder now then Covid that's for sure."
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