The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Larder shuts after 70 years
Aberdeenshire Larder has closed suddenly after trading for 70 years, leaving customers out of pocket.
The Ellon business, located on Broomies burn Road, ceased trading as of Wednesday.
Customers were alerted to the sudden news while phoning up to check on orders or make inquiries.
An automated message said: “Thank you for calling Aberdeenshire Larder. Sadly we have ceased trading as of the 28th of February.
“Liquidators have been appointed and we will be in touch with customers and suppliers.”
The butcher is located at Balmacassie Industrial Estate in Ellon
The owners published a statement online confirming they had entered voluntary liquidation.
They said: “Like many businesses, we have faced challenges due to the escalating costs of electricity, which is vital to our operations, and the increasing prices of raw materials.
“Unfortunately, despite our efforts, our primary focus on supplying independent hotels and restaurants has not rebounded since the onset of Covid-19.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers, especially those with outstanding retail orders.
“If you have been affected, we advise you to contact your card provider or PayPal for a refund.”
Aberdeenshire Larder was established in 1950 when John Christie Bain opened his first butcher’s shop in the village of Tarves.
On its website, the owners said they pride themselves on being a third-generation, familyrun butcher.
Three years ago, two of the owners – mother and daughter Charmaine Bain and daughter Anne-Marie – spoke to The P&J about keeping their business in the family.
They said working so closely together in such a pressured environment often had its obstacles, but neither minded as they take on different aspects of the business.