A POPULAR high street restaurant is set to close down after serving diners for nearly 40 years.
Carlo’s, a fixture of Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway is closing down in May.
For over 38 years, the restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of the town centre, becoming a cherished local institution.
However, the owners Carlo and Heather Bignami have announced that the restaurant will permanently close its doors on May 31.
In a Facebook post, they said: “The self-employed climate is getting tougher and with professional advice the decision to close was made.
“We want to say a huge thank you to all our lovely customers (many who have become friends) who have supported us throughout the past 38 years.
“We have had a lot of lovely hard working staff as well throughout these years. Should we now sit back and write a book all about running a restaurant?”
Responding to the post on Facebook, one diner said: “All the best in your retirement.
“Enjoy life together! Best food ever so you will both be sadly missed, Carlo for his excellent cuisine and you for your superb hospitality.
Another said: “So sorry to hear the news.
“Castle Douglas will not be the same without you.”
A third added: “Sorry to hear you are closing.”
Why are restaurants closing sites?
The hospitality industry is facing mounting pressures, including soaring bills, rising costs, and squeezed budgets.
More closures could be on the horizon due to upcoming hikes in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and the national minimum wage.
Many food and drink businesses have faced significant challenges recently, as the rising cost of living has led to a decline in dining out.
After struggling to recover from the impact of the pandemic, many establishments were then hit with soaring energy bills and mounting inflationary pressures.
This has forced several well-known chains to shut locations, with big brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s among those affected.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.
