Sale Foodhall falls victim to ‘unprecedented cost increases’

In a post on social media the food hall venue, which is based in Stanley Square, said its last day of trading would be 2 April before it closed its doors for good.

“After facing unprecedented cost increases over the last 12 months, we are unable to keep the business moving forward sustainably. Sadly, we have made the decision that Sale Foodhall will close,” the business wrote in a post on Instagram.

“We share this news with a heavy heart. It is really tough at the moment for hospitality businesses, independent businesses, retailers, makers - everyone really! We know that you, our guests and followers, are feeling it too and we’re sorry that we couldn’t keep serving you in Sale.”

The food hall was launched by Store Group - now known as CG Group - in Stanley Square in 2021. It is part of the group that operates the General Store brand, which has several stores and food halls across Greater Manchester including a food hall in Stretford, which remains open.

Traders operating at the food hall include Malaysian street food Nasi Lemak, gyros vendor Eat Like a Greek, and What's Your Beef, founded by Rochdale-based Neil Standring and Eddie Pope. The latter will continue to trade at the Stretford Food Hall.

Rising costs, in particularly energy costs, have proven to be insurmountable, according to the group.

“We’d like to thank all the talented traders, makers, creators and everyone else who has been part of our story in Sale,” the post continues. “And especially our customers who have welcomed us into the community from day one.”

The announcement comes days after the owners of east London restaurants Bright and P.Franco, as well as wine shop Noble Fine Liquor, announced the immediate closure of all three sites.

The reason for the closure were not revealed, with the business stating: “There are many complex ins-and-outs that have resulted in the position that we’re in, we don’t feel this is the forum or time to go through those things in detail."