A popular Leeds pub is facing the very real threat of closure because of the problems caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The team from The Mustard Pot in Chapel Allerton have opened up about the challenges they’ve faced since the enforced closure back in March - including losing thousands of pounds every week.
A Crowdfunder, with a target of £20,000, has been launched with donations being welcomed from punters to help the pub survive. Nicola Storey, who runs the Mustard Pot, has posted an emotional statement on their fundraiser page explaining the situation which she describes as desperate.
She said: “As you know, we closed in March and devastatingly did not qualify for any government grants. This coupled with constant failed attempts of negotiation with our creditors, means the bills have continued to roll in despite the pub being closed.
“We are in unimaginable debt, and despite us trying everything we can think of to pivot the business, none of the numbers stack up. We are desperate.
“We understand that so many others in our community are facing similarly impossible times, but I guess I just wanted to let you all know now so that, if you are at all able, you can help us save The Mustard Pot. I want to make sure before we lose the pub that I try absolutely everything.”
While, it looks likely pubs across Leeds will be able to reopen in a socially distant manner in July it will still be unlikely the venue will be able to run the big summer events they are known for. These are vitally important to their income.
Nicola explained: “The way our business model works is that it's so expensive to run that we need the big busy events and a good summer to make it profitable. We know none of this is going to be possible this year and this combined with all the debt and no buffer left leaves a very bleak picture.
“From the forecasting we have done reopening with social distancing in place, and with us unable to host any events, we will continue to lose thousands more every single week and we will lose the pub.”
So far, the crowdraising campaign has raised £13,000 and you can support it here. Nicola and the team at the Mustard Pot have thanked customers for the backing they’ve given them since it launched.
We’ll keep you posted with news about the fundraising campaign.
