Comedian Romesh Ranganathan has expressed his disappointment after the part-owned bakery chain he partnered with, Coughlans, has ceased trading due to financial difficulties.
The 89-year-old bakery chain, which had shops in London, Kent, Surrey, and West Sussex, had struggled with the increasing costs of national insurance contributions, high business rates, and fuel prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
In a video posted by the managing director, the company's financial struggles were attributed to the record-breaking heatwaves in June, which had resulted in a 50% loss of revenue.
Romesh, who had partnered with the bakery in 2024, launched several products for the company and had even worked behind the counter to celebrate the launch of one of his creations, the Ranga Yum Yum.
The company's decision to go into voluntary liquidation was made in order to pay staff and suppliers across their several stores, but the move has ultimately led to the closure of the business.
Managing director Sean Coughlan, who has worked with Romesh, praised the comedian's involvement with the company and expressed his gratitude for the partnership, stating that Romesh had been "amazing" and had brought a lot of joy to the team.
The closure of Coughlans Bakery marks the end of a 89-year history, with the company being founded in 1937.
Romesh reposted the video on his Instagram, expressing his disappointment at the news, saying "Gutted isn't the word."
The comedian had been involved with the bakery for several years and had even designed a vegan treat, the Ranga Yum Yum, which was sold to raise money for a mental health charity that Romesh is an ambassador for.
