BURST
A popular Vancouver coffee shop chain is set to close all of its locations.
In a post shared to Instagram , Matchstick Coffee staff stated it will close three of its cafes located in and around the city by April 1. The local company’s fourth location, on Davie Street, will close “in the near future.”
“Over the last few years, the landscape of our industry has shifted dramatically. Like many independent businesses, we have faced an increasingly challenging environment,” the post reads. “After exploring every possible avenue, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors.”
The first of the Matchstick locations to close will be in Yaletown at 1328 Richards St. on March 1, followed by Riley Park (4807 Main St.) on March 15.
The original Matchstick, which kicked off the company’s story when it opened in the Fraser neighbourhood at 639 E 15th Ave. in 2012, will close on April 1.
The coffee shop’s team noted the decision to close was not made lightly, citing its relationship with its staff and customers as its biggest success.
“Thank you for being part of our story in these neighbourhoods. We are incredibly grateful for every cup you’ve shared with us,” the post said.
Employees of the locations will be supported through the closure, according to Matchstick team’s post.
“With the respect, fair notice, and severance they deserve,” the post detailed. “We are honouring all commitments to our team, our landlords, and our suppliers as we navigate this wind-down.”
The local cafe business was rocked by allegations of toxic workplace practices in 2020.
Matchstick Coffee co-owner Spencer Viehweger and his wife, co-owner Annie Viehweger, resigned from their roles following the complaints, divesting themselves from all shares in the company.
—With files by Stephanie Ip, Postmedia News