Customers of an Arbroath tearoom say they have been left “heartbroken” after the decision to close the business.
The owners of Treasures Tearoom, on High Street, have confirmed it will shut permanently on Saturday July 8.
Owner Charlene Whammond said the decision to close was made as the tearoom was “no longer sustainable” because of the “huge hike” in food prices and energy costs.
However, she has confirmed Treasures Boutique will continue to run as normal.
Speaking to The Courier about the tearoom’s closure, Charlene said: “We are the busiest we have ever been but the outgoings are more than ever.
“The cost of everything has gone up – our gas and electricity has tripled so that’s been the main thing.
“We don’t have the heating on at the moment as it’s summer but come the winter we would’ve had to close anyway.”
Treasures Tearoom Arbroath to close ‘after much deliberation’
Charlene also thanked the staff and customers of Treasures Tearoom who, she said, had been “amazing”.
She added: “Treasures Tearoom would like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their loyalty and support since we opened our doors almost four years ago.
“We have contacted customers who have Tearoom bookings beyond (then) and would like to convey our appreciation for their understanding.
“If you have not been contacted, however, and have a booking after closure, please accept our sincere apologies for this oversight.
“Please continue to support us in the way you do. It means the world to us.”
Arbroath locals have told of their sadness in response to the Treasures Tearoom news.
Taking to social media, one said: “Absolutely heartbreaking to read this, one of the best tearooms I have been to.
‘Gutted for you’
“Amazing staff, beautiful food, lovely atmosphere and fantastic cocktails. Wishing all the staff the very best in their new ventures.”
Another posted: “I am so sorry to read this. What an amazing addition to the town it has been, though.”
One other customer wrote: “Gutted for you Charlene and the team. Won’t have been an easy decision.”
