The sudden closure of an independent coffee shop in the Lexicon has garnered mixed reactions from former customers across Bracknell.
Coffee Barker, received notice on Wednesday, June 12 that they would be forced to close its doors after a breakdown in negotiations over rent and increasing rates.
Following the closure notice, former customers expressed their thoughts on the sudden disappearance of a once-loved café.
One former customer and reader, Bob Francis, reminisced about the opening in 2017 within the newly regenerated town centre.
He said: “When it comes to food and drink a lot of the town feels very underused. I remember people queuing around the block to get one of those drinks with a donut on top when it first opened.”
For many, Coffee Barker was an excellent place to meet up with friends for a coffee and friendly atmosphere.
Lisa Nott said: “I really liked it. Great coffee, always found the staff pleasant, very comfortable armchairs instead of hard back seats, menu wasn’t that varied but always had a gluten free cake to offer which is more than most coffee shops who fail on this front! It’s a shame.”
According to another reader, the location in the centre of town made it an excellent location for ‘people watching’.
He said: “What a shame love sitting outside and people watching it’s the only place to sit comfortably outside and get some sun.”
Despite many people expressing their disappointment, some readers have said that they were ‘not surprised’ at the news due to the cafes supposed ‘inconsisent service and limited opening hours’.
Following the news, Catherine Meaden posted on Facebook: “It used to be really good doing breakfasts and all the lovely desserts. Also cocktails in the evening. Then gradually they cut back on all of it, making them no different from other places.
“When they stopped breakfast I stopped meeting my friends there. It was also expensive in comparison to others. Such a shame it went this way.”
The News spoke to Coffee Barker’s manager, Manj Kaur, who said that although the owners tried their hardest to come to a compromise on rent, they were unable to meet the Lexicon’s demands.
Another reader added: “Rent and rates have gone crazy for these businesses......the landlords let them have a cheap 3 year rent deal, once its up thats it..they simply cannot afford to stay.”
Many people have spoken up, promoting the independent café – Brew Coffee Bar - located in Easthampstead Works. It is only two minutes from the Lexicon and boasts a handful of tasty snacks and drinks.
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