Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
It is with a heavy heart that I am writing about five businesses that have recently closed or are going to close soon. For various reasons, each of these iconic establishments has encountered challenges that resulted in their demise.
We are living in uncharted waters as each business has to navigate labor shortages, substantial increases in the cost of supplies, supply shortages and cost of labor increases.
The first business, which is going to close its doors after 22 years in operation, is English Creek Auto.
Owner Charles Cain announced yesterday on the radio that he will be closing by the end of the month. He noted various reasons, but it seemed that it has been a real challenge getting cars and parts to sell along with many changes in the industry.
On a positive note, the timing was right. He said he received an offer on the property that he could not refuse.
Another iconic business which is in Egg Harbor Township is Gaspare’s Bistro. This well-known restaurant had fabulous food and was loved by many. It is said that the difficulty of getting help, food costs, and the cost of labor attributed to the closing after 45 years. The restaurant will be sadly missed.
Moving on to Ocean City where three businesses have announced they are closing: Wards Bakery, Voltaco’s, and Ocean City Surf Café.
I was heartbroken when I heard about each of these closings. They have been a part of the community for many years.
Wards Bakery was loved by locals and visitors alike for 98 years. Everything from their fabulous cinnamon buns to their delicious cakes will be missed. This business was hit by the substantial increase in supply costs. Walt Hohman announced that the business will be closing by the end of the month. It is a sad day for Ocean City.
Ocean City Surf Café, announced that it will be closing after 10 years. It offered delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner.
It was apparently a challenge to get help and once again the cost of labor and increase in food costs made it very difficult to maintain affordable prices for customers.
Finally, there’s Voltaco’s Italian takeout, which may be the most iconic of all of the businesses. It has been a staple of Ocean City since 1954. Their departure is truly a heartbreaker.
The visitors have raved about their food since day one. Generations of families have supported this famous business. The Taccarino Family sincerely thanks all their employees and customers from all of the years.
I say it all the time: support your local businesses. Do everything you can to stay off the internet.
If you can afford it, go out and support your local restaurants. Please try to. They work long, hard hours to provide great products and services. We do not want to see any more businesses close.
Rich Baehrle of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach. Can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011 richardbaehrle@gmail.com
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