Wine bar announces closure after 2 years – ‘UK economy is an absolute bin fire’

A popular wine bar shut its doors after nearly two years in business, with its owners blaming the harsh realities facing the UK hospitality sector.

Paul’s of Pershore in Pershore, Worcester officially closed its premises in The Royal Arcade earlier this month after 20 months of trading. The difficult decision was made on Monday, January 5, by owners Dan and Paul Boatright-Greene, who said the future of the business remains uncertain.

Speaking after the closure, Dan Boatright-Greene said the situation was still raw.

“We made the decision on Monday, and it’s now Friday, so it’s still quite fresh,” he told Worcester News.

“The physical store has closed, but we’re not sure yet about the business. We’re going to take it from there and take a look at what can be done. Hospitality is an absolute bin fire at the moment.”

He explained that the decision came amid wider struggles across the sector, revealing that many other businesses were facing similar challenges.

“We went to the accountant, and we were maybe one of two dozen businesses that seemed to make the decision over Christmas,” he added.

“I’ll be the first to admit I’m not an accountant, but in many ways it feels better that it’s not just us. Everything is just taking a bit longer than it should at the moment.”

Paul’s of Pershore first opened on May 3, 2024, after the former teachers decided to pursue their long-held dream of running their own business. The wine bar became known for its regular tastings and community-focused events.

Speaking last June, as the venue marked its first anniversary, Mr Boatright-Greene acknowledged that “hospitality needed a lot of love” but said he hoped to expand the business by taking it on tour across Worcestershire, visiting villages, fetes and shows.

Confirming the closure on Facebook, Paul Boatright-Greene wrote: “It’s with a heavy heart that I’m sharing that Paul’s of Pershore has now closed. Thank you to everyone who supported the business over the years, the kindness and encouragement shown meant more than I can say.”

While the shutters have come down on the Pershore venue, the owners said it was too early to say whether the business itself would return in another form.