A GREENOCK cafe is to close after 20 years in business amid redevelopment works in the town centre and rising operating costs.
The owners of Cafe Balfe shared the news on social media this afternoon, confirming that they will serve customers for the final time on Thursday.
Opened by Sharon Balfe in 2005, the West Blackhall Street site celebrated the milestone anniversary last year.
The cafe initially employed eight staff members and two chefs, with this doubling to 17 staff and four chefs by 2025.
Sharon retired after ten years running the business, with daughters Lauren and Colette taking over the reigns.
They said: "With the ongoing regeneration works on West Blackhall Street, along with rising costs, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to bring our journey to an end.
"We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all of our wonderful customers, both past and present, who have supported us throughout the last 20 years.
"We have so many amazing memories, and Cafe Balfe simply wouldn’t have been what it was without each and every one of you.
"We would also like to give a special thank you to all of our staff, past and present.
"Your hard work, dedication and friendship have meant so much to us, and Cafe Balfe wouldn’t have been the same without you.
"If you have any unused vouchers, we would love for you to pop in and use them over our final few days.
"Please come and see us, say goodbye and share one last coffee, cake or chat with us before we close.
"It’s going to be a very emotional few days, but we would love to see as many familiar faces as possible."
