A much-loved bakery chain is making a return to the high street after previously shutting down all of its 13 UK locations. Despite managing to survive the impact of both World Wars, the Great Depression, and the pandemic, the business struggled with rising energy costs and reduced foot traffic, ultimately forcing it to close earlier this year. Oddie’s, a family-run bakery that first opened back in 1905, has been a favourite among many, with some loyal customers even saying it’s superior to Greggs.
When the bakery chain closed, many people took to Reddit and Facebook to voice their disappointment. One Reddit user wrote: “Very sad, Oddie’s is far superior to Greggs.”
Another Reddit user said: “Potts pies in Lancaster has just closed recently. I’m sorry to see Oddies go too. End of an era. They will be sorely missed.”
The closures resulted in the loss of 100 jobs, many of which had been with the company for over 20 years.
Waterfields Bakery confirmed that it will secure the future of Oddie’s in Nelson, Colne, and five Burnley locations.
The stores will continue to trade under the Oddie’s name and all seven stores are set to open next month.
King Charles visited the Nelson headquarters back in 2005 to celebrate the bakery’s 100th anniversary.
Scott Davies, of Waterfields, said: “Our priority is keeping these local bakeries alive and thriving.
“We understand how important Oddies is to the community.”
The award-winning bakery is beloved by locals for its classic bakes like freshly baked loaves, sweet and savoury pastries such as Bilberry Charlotte cakes, and a wide variety of other cakes.