A beloved Northern Irish cafe chain abruptly shuts down, leaving 80 employees in limbo and raising questions about the future of hospitality in the region.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through Northern Ireland's hospitality scene, Synge & Byrne, a popular cafe chain, has announced the immediate closure of all nine of its branches across the region. This decision will directly impact up to 80 employees, leaving many families and individuals facing an uncertain future. The affected cafes are located in prominent areas, including Antrim’s Junction shopping outlet, Belfast’s Boucher Road, Derry’s Foyleside, Newtownabbey’s Abbey Shopping Centre, Craigavon’s Dobbin Road, Moygashel’s The Linen Green, and three locations in Co Down: Sugar Quay, Castlewellan Forest Park, and Kilbroney Forest Park in Rostrevor. But here's where it gets controversial: while the Northern Irish branches are closing, the five Synge & Byrne cafes in the Republic of Ireland, along with their hospitality contracts, remain unaffected, sparking debates about the disparities in economic conditions between the two regions.
Synge & Byrne Abbey Ltd, the company behind the chain, is receiving assistance from the AAB Group during this transition. Founded in 2014 by brothers Damien and Adrian Garvey, the brand quickly became a staple in the local hospitality scene, inspired by what Damien described as the “new artisan movement.” This movement emphasized a return to traditional Ulster cuisine, a concept that resonated strongly with customers. At the height of their success, the brothers even envisioned expanding their brand across Britain and beyond. And this is the part most people miss: despite their ambitious plans, the company faced mounting challenges, including soaring operating costs and a growing debt burden, which ultimately led to this drastic decision.
In a statement, the company clarified that its operations in the Republic of Ireland are entirely separate legal and operational entities, ensuring that staff, suppliers, customers, and services there remain unaffected. A spokesperson emphasized, “Synge & Byrne continues to operate successfully at its locations in Galway and Blanchardstown and maintains its catering and hospitality contracts with the National Museum of Ireland and National Parks.”
Director Damien Garvey expressed deep regret over the closure, stating, “We are deeply sorry to have reached this situation. Despite our very best efforts to save the business, we have been unable to overcome the mounting difficulties we faced, not least the current market conditions impacting the hospitality sector.” He extended heartfelt thanks to the hundreds of talented staff and loyal customers who supported the chain over the past 12 years.
A thought-provoking question for our readers: As the hospitality sector continues to struggle with rising costs and economic uncertainties, what measures do you think governments and businesses should take to protect local enterprises and their employees? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s spark a meaningful discussion about the future of small businesses in challenging times.
