The cost of living crisis has claimed another victim: the sudden closure of a food delivery service in Sydney and Newcastle.
Hartley Health shared the “devastating” news on Instagram about the immediate closure of the facility after a last-minute deal meant to save the business fell through.
“It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that Hartley Health is no longer accepting orders and will cease operations effective immediately,” said Owner Jordan Hartley.
‘Given the rising costs of the food industry and its impact on my mental health, I have made the difficult decision to prioritize my wellbeing.
‘Unfortunately, I do not have the mental capacity to continue raising funds and creating working capital.’
Jordan used her experience from Michelin-starred restaurants The Ledbury in London and Bennelong in Sydney to serve up “great” meals without the fuss.
The popular service delivered thoughtful and “delicious” dishes free of preservatives and seed oils, serving grateful locals for six years, even surviving the Covid-19 pandemic.
But the sector has unfortunately been succumbed to the current financial circumstances, with record numbers of businesses across the country having to close their doors.
Owner Jordan Hartley, a chef with experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant, spoke of the strain on her mental health that led to the “devastating” closure of her business six years ago.
Fans of the food delivery service were saddened to hear the business would be closing immediately, but wished Jordan the best for the future
Jordan thanked her loyal community of many years, saying the news was personally “devastating” and that many dedicated fans were quick to show their support.
“I’m so sorry to hear this, we will miss you so much! Your company and product are amazing and you did a fantastic job!” said one.
“What an incredible company you have created. I have seen so many great friends go through this this past year, all opening doors to incredible new chapters. Keep it up,” said another.
This latest closure follows the collapse of famous Sydney eateries Paddington pub The Unicorn Hotel and hip Peruvian-Japanese restaurant Warike in Surry Hills.
Many business owners blame the ‘impossible’ conditions on rising business costs and Australians spending less on non-essentials as they grapple with the cost of living crisis.
And it’s not just small businesses that are struggling: Japanese fast food giant MOS Burger has announced that it will be closing its three Queensland locations.
Loyal fans of the burger chain, which first opened in Australia in Southport in 2011, reacted with sadness to the news.
“I’m sad… my study meal… I will miss you forever MOS Burger,” said one.