Pie maker in appeal to customers as costs soar
AN award-winning pie maker who opened a shop in Kings Heath in 2020 says that ‘every week is a struggle’ as he faces rising costs and a financial climate that is making small business life ‘beyond difficult’.
Gary Rourke set up Rourke’s Pies during lockdown, before opening a shop in Kings Heath.
The company was named Lloyds Small Business of the Year in 2021 and Gary’s pies have scooped plenty of food awards, including Gold for pork pies at the British Pie Awards.
But despite making perfect bakes, Rourke’s is facing difficulties due to rising costs.
The businessman said that basic ingredients, such as flour, have shot up in cost by more than 60 per cent.
He said: “The current climate is making it beyond difficult for independent businesses, like ourselves, to keep going.
“Almost weekly we’re seeing another restaurant, cafe or bar close its doors for good – something needs to change. Running costs, from utilities to ingredients, are through the roof.
“Our pies rely on butter, oil and flour, all of which have gone up about 30 per cent in price. For us, a big bag of flour has gone up from £9 to £15.
“We get through about 20 of these a month. So even the basics are becoming unaffordable. Not only is it costing us more to produce our pies, but people are spending less because they simply haven’t got the money.
“Every week is a struggle for us right now. We have no idea if we’ll get through but we know we are not alone.”
In an online appeal to customers he added: “Small businesses are such a big part of our brilliant communities. The Brummie food and drink scene is bloody amazing, but without your help, more and more will go under.
“So we ask you to support small businesses.
“Next time you get a coffee, lunch, whatever it may be, shop local.”
Almost weekly we’re seeing another restaurant, cafe or bar close its doors for good something needs to change.
Gary Rourke