05/06/2026
Since McDonald's opened, we've faced challenges that many of you may not realise.
No matter how much we try to educate people that we're often cheaper, offer larger portions, and provide better value for money, the draw of a global brand is incredibly strong. Now that McDonald's also offers delivery, that challenge has become even greater.
After speaking with representatives from Foodhub and Just Eat, we've been told that we're still one of the top 3 takeaways in the SA18 area. Whilst we're grateful for that, it also raises concerns. If we're still in the top 3 and our orders have dropped dramatically since McDonald's opened, it suggests that many other local takeaways are likely struggling even more.
Like many households, we understand that people are feeling the pressure of rising costs. Fuel prices, food costs, bills and everyday expenses mean that eating out or ordering a takeaway has become more of an occasional treat rather than a regular habit. However, even before these latest increases, we had already noticed order numbers reducing week after week.
Next week we'll be away on our annual summer holiday, something we do every year. During that time, we'll be taking a long hard look at the business and reviewing our menu. Unfortunately, due to the significant drop in orders, we will be reducing and removing items that once sold daily but now sit on the shelf and end up being thrown away. Food waste is something we simply can't continue to absorb.
We are fortunate to have another business that is thriving, but when you sit down and look at the figures, you have to ask difficult questions. Is the business doing enough to justify remaining open and continuing to offer delivery?
When we return from our holiday, we'll give things a further two weeks to see if trade improves. We genuinely hope it does because The Sweetie Hut has always been about serving our local community, creating jobs, and offering something different.
To everyone who continues to support us, recommend us, and choose local over big chains, thank you. Your support means more than you know.
We'll keep you updated when we return.
www.thesweetiehutonline.co.uk
