Devon-based bakery chain hopes to avoid stores having to shut for good

A FAMILY-RUN bakery is looking to sell its assets out of liquidation in a bid to prevent the permanent closure of eight outlets in Devon.

- by HANNAH BAKER

The Crusty Cob was established in 1969 in Ottery St Mary and employed more than 100 staff, but has been impacted by "external cost pressures" in recent years, including reduced consumer demand linked to the cost-of-living crisis.

The business, which is hoping to restart under new ownership, said increased business rates, upward-only rent leases and the rise in employers' national insurance contributions has also added to the financial strain.

Advisory firm Azets is supporting the business.