A popular cafe and B&B has announced it has been forced to close for good after only a couple of years, as they “couldn’t keep up with rising costs“. Cafe Neuk, located within the grounds of Arduthie House, a six-bedroom bed and breakfast in the Aberdeenshire town of Stonehaven, confirmed on social media that they will be closing the shop permanently within weeks, and that the B&B part of the business will eventually close after being sold.

In the announcement, Caitlin and Craig Turrif, who took the tearooms in 2024 and the B&B the following year, blamed pressures faced across the hospitality sector and offered a touching tribute to their customers and community. “We are absolutely heartbroken to share that Cafe Neuk’s last day will be on February 22.

“This was the hardest decision to make as it really has been our happy place – and hopefully yours – since we opened the cafe in 2024 and the B&B in 2025.

“Sadly, with each passing month, the pressure of the hospitality industry and small businesses keeps getting heavier on every front.

“Hospitality UK have been advocating for changes such as a VAT scheme that is fairer on the hospitality industry… I sincerely hope that some changes are made so that other businesses can keep going.

“Sadly, We just couldn’t keep up with the rising costs while our footfall kept going down.”

Cafe Neuk said they are “truly so sorry” for the closure and “wish that we would be here serving you coffees until we were old and grey”,” Aberdeen Live reports.

“We couldn’t have asked for lovelier customers than you all, you have brought our cafe to life each day with your chatter and laughter,” they added.

“I have had more ‘pinch me’ moments than I can count. Every time everyone joins in to sing happy birthday as we bring out a candle on an afternoon tea stand (or mini burgers…or pancakes!) to hosting your friends and family for special occasions like baby showers, hen do’s and milestone birthdays.

“When new customers enjoy their first visit or when you welcome back those of you who don’t need a menu (you know who you are!)

“I could go on forever. Thank you for being part of the Cafe Neuk journey, from the bottom of our hearts.”

The post added that former Arduthie House owners Rod and Lesley would be running the B&B until the property is sold.

Hospitality bosses are making a last-ditch plea to Rachel Reeves to protect them from a hammer blow rise in business rates.

Hotel owners say rates rises will hit their investment plans — and UK growth — and are calling on the Chancellor to extend a support package intended for pubs.

Restaurateurs and other high street businesses also want access to the financial lifeline, which is expected within days, reports The Sun.

Gordon Ramsay warned last week that hospitality businesses were “lambs to the slaughter” unless they received urgent help.

Family hotel business faces £1.18m rates increase

Ravi Majithia, director of Avantis Hotels, which runs three Hiltons in York and St Albans, has now echoed the TV chef’s warning.

He said: “Our business is my family’s life’s work.

“We are proud to be a local employer and contribute to our communities but we’re now facing a £1.18million increase in our business rates over the next three years.

“That’s on top of a potential tourist tax and higher national insurance.

“It’s a hammer blow to the industry, which strips out cash for jobs and investment.”

Lancashire Cricket Club hotel hit with £198k bill by 2028

Meanwhile, the Hilton Garden Inn hotel owned by Lancashire Cricket Club will see its business rates bill increase by £183,000 next year — and by £198,000 in 2028.

Club boss Daniel Gidney said: “It’s critical the hotel and stadium sector is included in any support measures.

“Hotels are a key contributor to their local communities — both as significant local employers and supporting local supply chains.

“We urge the Government to act now to support the sector.”

A Treasury spokesman said: “We’re backing hospitality businesses with a £4.3billion support package to limit bill rises, as well as capping corporation tax at 25 per cent.”

More Brits are taking the leap to become their own boss, according to new research from Smart Energy GB. The study reveals that a third of Brits are enthusiastic about  self-employment, drawn by the prospect of flexible working hours and the chance to pursue their passions.

The entrepreneurial spirit is especially strong among Gen Z, with seven in ten hoping to launch their own business in the future. The promise of higher earnings and greater control over their work are major motivators. While choosing the right industry can feel daunting, there’s good news for those looking to make the jump as one sector in particular stands out as a top choice.

According to business expert Dr Alison Edgar MBE, who has coached winners of Dragon’s Den and The Apprentice, hospitality is thriving. She explains there has been a revival in enterprises such as cafés, bakeries, and wine bars, as people seek distinctive, local experiences. 

She also emphasised AI, technology, and beauty as encouraging sectors, highlighting strong consumer appetite, minimal entry barriers, and continuous innovation.

“Starting a business always carries risk – but it also carries huge potential,” Alison Edgar said. “If you really know your customer, and offer something with passion and personality, you’ve got every chance of building something brilliant.”

However, the study also uncovered some concerns: 30 per cent worry about an unpredictable income, 21 per cent worry about covering overheads, while others fear a lack of customers or running out of funds.

Edgar urges new business owners to be vigilant of overheads and steer clear of unnecessary expenses. “Keep a regular close eye on your bills,” she recommended, adding that fitting a smart meter can be a straightforward and effective method to monitor energy consumption.

Victoria Bacon, a director at Smart Energy GB, agrees: “The data from a smart meter can also help owners identify where they might be able to make some cost savings, which can help with managing overheads.”

“The research shows people thinking about running their own businesses appreciate the benefits, but are equally aware of the pressures, particularly around controlling their finances.”

When it comes to taking the plunge, 68 percent of potential entrepreneurs say they would seek advice – whether from friends with business experience, enterprise support organisations, or family members.

However, three in ten cite a lack of funding as the main hurdle to launching their business.

Edgar’s advice is: “Start small, test the market, and don’t wait for perfect – just get going. Dreams only work if you do.”