A bakery chain linked to comedian Romesh Ranganathan has faced financial difficulties, as the owners of the popular high street bakery brand Coughlans Bakery have confirmed its liquidation after nearly a century of operation.
Ranganathan, aged 47, a vocal vegan, became an investor in Coughlans bakery in 2024, making history as the first non-family member to join the bakery’s board in its long history. He became a co-owner and shareholder of the bakery chain, which had more than 30 locations in South London, Surrey, Kent, and West Sussex.
Known for its plant-based offerings, Coughlans bakery offered a diverse range of baked goods such as doughnuts, cinnamon buns, artisan bread, and wild mushroom sausage rolls.
Despite its celebrity endorsement and established presence on the southern High Street, the bakery chain has succumbed to financial pressures, including escalating fuel costs, wage demands, and changes in national insurance regulations.
The closure of the high street bakery chain has been abrupt, with bakery management attributing it to various financial challenges. Owner Sean Coughlan expressed deep disappointment over the decision to cease operations, citing additional weekly costs of approximately £20,000 due to external pressures.
The sudden surge in operational expenses rendered the business model unsustainable, despite previous expansion and successful trading periods. The bakery, operating for almost a century, faced insurmountable challenges that led to its closure.
According to Coughlan, recent heatwaves in the UK exacerbated the bakery’s financial struggles, culminating in its closure. He acknowledged the efforts of his team and the support of customers over the years, expressing gratitude amidst the emotional impact of shutting down the business.
In response to the closure, Ranganathan shared a brief message online, expressing his sorrow over the turn of events. He reposted the announcement from his business partner, accompanied by a crying emoji and a heartfelt caption conveying his dismay.
The bakery ceased its operations immediately following the announcement on June 30, marking the end of an era for the beloved high street chain.
