THE determined owner of a popular cafe has marked the end of an era as the popular business closes its doors as she vows to her loyal customers 'we'll be back'.
Julie's Cafe at West Bank in Berry Hill Industrial Estate in Droitwich closed today (Friday) at 1.30pm after more than a quarter of a century serving its popular breakfasts and lunches.
However, business owner Julie Smith, who described the close-knit team as 'like a family', is still smiling as she searches for a new home in Droitwich.
The business was particularly busy on their final day as customers wanted to show their support.
Owner Julie Smith, 67, of Droitwich said: "One door shuts and another one opens. We will find somewhere else. Absolutely, we will be back."
The cafe has loyal customers who wish the cafe could stay and say they wish the decision to close, beyond the cafe's control, could be reversed.
John Greenwood, a fisherman, said: "I've been coming here since this cafe's birth. The staff are amazing. It should not have to close down. I'm devastated to be honest. All the people on the estate will miss it."
Mrs Smith, a mum-of-two and grandmother of three, said the cafe began as Lynn's Catering in 1992. She started as a cleaner but was soon cooking.
She said 'two or three people took over' running the business before she took over in 2020.
The business, previously on the town's George Baylis Road, has been at its current location for the last 13 years, moving there with the gym next door.
"It was the best move we ever made and we had twice the space. It was falling apart when we came here," she said, describing how her nephew helped get them ready to open.
"We have really loyal customers. This is the end of an era but we do hope to reopen in the near future as soon as we possibly can in Droitwich.
"All my girls come from Droitwich and I don't want them to have to travel. They are the best team," she said.
Stacey Smith, the manager, has been important to the success of the business.
She said the team prided themselves on serving good quality but affordable breakfasts and lunches, including sandwiches and a takeaway and delivery service.
An agreement has ended with the owners of the building which is the reason for the closure.
In a social media post, the team said: "Many of you will have heard the many rumours going around about Julie’s Café, and sadly, with a heavy heart, I have to say they are true.
"After more than 25 wonderful years serving the people of Droitwich, I am absolutely devastated to say that Julie’s Café will be closing its doors, but through no fault of our own."
