Popular bakery Black Star Pastry has announced it will be closing all of its Melbourne stores blaming the decision on a “tough economic climate”.
The bakery will serve its last customers on Sunday, August 18 before its three Melbourne outlets, at St Kilda, the CBD and Chadstone, close their doors.
In an announcement on social media on Tuesday, Black Star Pastry said the decision was “difficult” and several factors had made it impossible to continue trading.
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“Rising costs, a tough economic climate and an industry-wide staffing shortage have forced us to consolidate our team and we will shift our focus to our original home of Sydney,” it said.
“We want to thank our loyal regulars, once-in-a-while visitors and all those who have supported us in the wonderful city of Melbourne.
“We had a beautiful journey and many great friendships here and hope to see you one day soon.”
Black Star Pastry’s Sydney stores in Newtown, Sydney CBD, Rosebery, Chatswood, Burwood and Broadway will continue trading as normal.
The bakery was first established in 2008 in Sydney.
It experienced a surge in popularity after its aesthetically pleasing strawberry watermelon cake took over Instagram several years ago, with the New York Times calling it “Australia’s Most Instagrammed Dessert”.
According to its website, the cake was originally created for a wedding but has now become the bakery’s most requested cake.
Following the news, loyal Melbourne customers shared their disappointment on social media.
“This is devastating!!! I love black star! Was planning to do my cake with you guys next year,” one person wrote.
“This is super sad to read. Thanks for bringing amazing bloody cakes to us! Big loss to our state!,” another said.