The Nanaimo Bakery & Cafe on Bowen Rd. in Nanaimo announced on Oct. 27 they will be ceasing regular operations on Nov. 24, 2023, citing economic and staffing challenges, as well as "shifting community priorities." (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Jordan Davidson

bowen bakery closing

Unique Nanaimo bakery shutting down due to economic challenges

Oct 27, 2023 | 1:59 PM

NANAIMO — A Nanaimo bakery run by a local non-profit is closing its doors for good next month.

The Nanaimo Bakery & Cafe, operated by Island Crisis Care Society (ICCS) announced its sit-in restaurant located at 2025 Bowen Rd. will be closed effective Nov. 24, 2023,

ICCS director of people, culture and engagement Corrie Corfield told NanaimoNewsNOW they’ve faced numerous setbacks since first taking over the venture more than two years ago.

“I think it’s been a challenging time for anyone in the food business, and especially trying to basically take something that was existing and change course with it has been a big challenge for us. Our board decided recently that we really had no option but to look at closing the business.”

In June of 2021, the ICCS began operating the bakery, implementing Rising Hope Services, allowing clients of the non-profit to work alongside bakery staff to gain valuable work and life experience for a more self-sufficient future.

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Citing “economic challenges, staffing issues, and shifting community priorities”, a Friday, Oct. 27 Facebook post indicated the ICCS was unable to continue with business as usual.

While the bakery will close in a few weeks, the ICCS will remain in the building as the Rising Hope Services program is evaluated.

“We’ve always seen the opportunity for community connection with this business,” said Corfield. “So throughout December, we are going to try and focus more intentionally on that.”

While Nov. 24 is noted as the day they will cease operations, Corfield said they will continue hosting community events at the location, including a possible community market in December, and will also have limited items for sale through their Facebook page or via email.

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jordan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow