‘Simply not sustainable’: NI chicken restaurant to close due to ‘extreme hospitality challenges’

Pure Bird opened on Sackville Street in the city in May 2023, but just over a year later, owners Ronan and Nadia have taken to social media to announce it will cease trading this Saturday.

“This has been the hardest decision to make but due to health reasons coupled with the extreme challenges of the hospitality industry at this point we have had no other choice,” they said.

“Firstly I would like to reach out to each and every customer that has ever ordered from us whether in the shop or for delivery, we have been blown away from day one and truly humbled at how the people of this class city have got behind us and our own take on fried chicken.

"We enjoyed so much coming up with the quirky names for the menu and sharing our passion for quality food with you all.

“To all our regulars as well please know that we wouldn’t have got to where we are without you! There were Saturday nights with the tunes pumping and the takeaway buzzing and there was no feeling like it in the world. We will never forget it! From the bottom of or hearts thank you all so much!

“And to our staff, past and present we want to thank you for all your hard work you put in and the fun that we had on this journey together!

“I’m sure there are others I should thank but the list is so long, everyone from Enterprise North West for their guidance to workmen and to the local businesses in the area that welcomed us, you all know who you are.”

The owners also issued an appeal for the public to get out and show support to local small businesses, and called for action on the VAT rate for hospitality, as well as teasing a return at some point in the future.

"Aside from the now crippling costs faced by the sector in terms of the produce and gas/electric etc, the real kicker is 20% VAT rate for hospitality businesses together with the current level of business rates which are simply not sustainable,” they said.

"Real boots on the ground support for hospitality has to come sooner rather than later. Please get the word and help push to keep your fave spots to eat and drink open for the long term.

"A reduction in VAT and rates can’t come quick enough. This city has some of the best food you can get anywhere and we want to keep it that way. Go shout about it!

"So this is not a goodbye but rather a see you soon! We have plans for a wee comeback but this time in a very different format – watch out for our socials where we will keep you filled in these coming months.”

News Catch Up: Monday 17th June 2024