Brighton grocery closes with loss of 15 jobs (From The Argus)

Brighton grocery closes with loss of 15 jobs

2:33pm Wednesday 15th February 2012 in Business News By John Keenan, business editor

A grocery store and restaurant is to close with the loss of 15 jobs.

Former investment banker turned shopkeeper Jason Hurwitz opened Thornes Foods in Upper Gardner Street, Brighton, in August.

Mr Hurwitz blamed the cost of renovating the derelict property for the failure of the business.

The refurbished derelict antiques auction housed a food store and restaurant. It sold fresh, local ingredients and fine foods made in Sussex and the surrounding area.

Mr Hurwitz thanked customers and all those who had supported the business He said: “I worked on the project for two years before opening, raising capital from private investors and banks.“I greatly regret the decision to close. The renovation cost of what was a derelict empty 180-year-old building went over budget which left the business with insufficient funds at the start of trading.

“A rescue plan was put in place in October which allowed us to have a successful Christmas, but trading has fallen which has left the company unable to meet its debts.

“Therefore, in the interest of protecting local suppliers as much as is possible, the business will unfortunately be ceasing trading.”

The store is closed this week but will reopen on Saturday morning for a closing down sale.

The restaurant is open as usual all week and over the weekend.

Reservations for Friday and Saturday night are still being taken.