By KLTV Newsdesk –

Beloved local business cites rising costs and changing shopping habits behind difficult decision

A well-known fixture of the local high street for six decades, Merrie England has announced it will close its doors after 60 years in business.

In a statement released on 28 July 2026, the company said the decision had been made with “great sadness” following mounting financial pressures that have made it impossible to continue trading.

The business pointed to a combination of increasing operating costs, including higher prices for goods, business rates, energy bills and staffing, alongside the impact of government policy and changing consumer spending habits.

The announcement said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Merrie England.

“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, reached after facing a sustained increase in the cost of goods, business rates, energy costs, and the wider rising costs associated with staffing and government policy.

“Alongside these pressures, we have also seen a reduction in footfall and customer spending, with many people understandably unable or unwilling to pay the prices that businesses now need to charge in order to survive.”

All locations were closed effective immediately as of this morning (28 July 2026), with disappointed customers having to be turned away

Thanking the community after six decades

Having served generations of customers over the past 60 years, Merrie England paid tribute to the people who have supported the business throughout its long history.

The statement continued: “After 60 years of serving our customers, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us over the decades.

“Your loyalty, kindness, and custom have meant so much to us, and we are truly grateful to have been part of the community for so long.”

The closure marks the end of an era for a business that has become a familiar part of the local community, with many customers having visited the store over multiple generations.

All the shops have been closed, including the three central Huddersfield locations and the Oakes Drive-Thru

Comments and well-wishes

Hundreds of comments from local residents have been left on Merrie England’s Facebook page following the announcement this morning.

Many have been sharing their fond memories of the Cafe as well as sending well wishes to the staff.

One comment said: “Always went for lunch when I worked at Thomas Cook’s round the corner from the 70s onwards.

“Hubby loved the beef teacakes. Ham salad on brown my favourite. Egg mayonnaise or ham roll favourites too. Apple pie & cream to die for.”

Another comment said: “This is really sad news and end of an era…. It was the go-to place for milky coffee, bacon sandwiches and beef sandwiches … I have lots of fond memories …. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy decision, and I’m sorry you had to make it. All the best to the staff.”

Merrie England has been an institution for many local residents, including Huddersfield Town superfan Maureen Procter

Looking to the future

As the business prepares to close, Merrie England has also thanked those who have played a part in its journey, from employees to suppliers and customers.

The statement concluded: “We wish all our customers, friends, staff, and suppliers the very best for the future. Thank you once again for being part of our journey.”