Bury Automatic Cafe closure to be a 'great loss' for community

The Bury Times reported on Sunday that Automatic Cafe was to close its doors with immediate effect after 20 years.

It was “one of the few remaining independent catering outlets in the centre of Bury”.

Victoria Robinson, CEO at The Met, said: “It’s a great loss to lose Automatic, our catering partner, so suddenly after working so closely with them for over 20 years.

“Hospitality and culture have always been intrinsically linked and this is a great loss to us and the people of Bury.

“Our thoughts are with all of those involved and we’ll continue to work with Automatic and support them as much as possible as they go through this difficult transition.”

Automatic has been serving the people of Bury for over 20 years with high-quality food, drinks and cocktails and has provided the perfect pre and post-show spots for audiences of The Met.

It was one of the few remaining independent catering outlets in the centre of Bury and its closure is said to highlight the increasing pressure on businesses nationally, through the cost-of-living crisis, inflation, spiralling energy costs and ongoing covid recovery.

The loss of the independent business has been felt by other Bury venues too which have since warned that eateries and bars need public support.

A spokesperson from Cosealea Café said that it is critical for communities to support their local business to maintain their “vibrancy and uniqueness”

A spokesman said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the closure of Automatic Cafe Bury.

“The challenging business climate has unfortunately led to the closure of many establishments like this on a daily basis.

“In these difficult times, it is crucial to support local businesses.

“While big chains may survive, independent businesses need our support now more than ever. We need to come together as a community and continue to support local businesses.

“They are the heart and soul of our towns and cities.

“By supporting them, we help them survive and contribute to our communities' vibrancy and uniqueness.”

The venue was a part of Hollinworth & Price, a family of independent food and drink companies established by Lee Hollinworth and Lottie Price and in 2016, the business was nominated as one of the best cafes in Britain.

The venue has been a  favourite for many years for some customers such as one who said: “For the past 20 years it’s been our go-to place, one of the best places in Bury!

“We’re currently in Mexico and only said yesterday that we can’t wait to get home for decent food and tapas in Automatic!

“Good luck for the future .”

Another person dubbed it the “best place in Bury” and a “go-to” for any celebration meal.

Another said: "It is such a shame, it will have so many memories for so many people of different generations.

"I will miss the cosy 'whisky' bar in winter."

Let us know your memories of Automatic with us in the comments below.