Beloved Bakery Closes Storefront, Shifts to Pickup-Only Service

Coco’s Cookies, a beloved bakery located in Fittons West Plaza, is undergoing a significant transformation. Starting in February, the bakery will transition from a walk-in storefront to a pickup-only service model. Co-owner Tyson Renshaw cites rising operational costs and declining foot traffic as key reasons for this shift.

Changes to Operations

The new model will emphasize pre-orders and custom baking. Renshaw explained that customers can still collect their baked goods from the current location but won’t have access to browse retail shelves or purchase items casually. “We won’t be open to the public,” said Renshaw, “but we’ll be open for people to come pick up their orders.”

Focus on Custom Orders

The bakery plans to streamline its operations, allowing co-owner Nicole Hepinstall to concentrate on baking without the distractions of traditional retail. Customers will be informed about weekly pre-order menus, and the bakery will welcome requests for custom cakes and other baked products. Generally, a week’s notice is preferred for orders, although last-minute requests may sometimes be accommodated.

Economic Pressures

Renshaw highlighted the sharp rise in operating costs since the bakery’s inception. He conducted a comparison of staple ingredient prices from when Coco’s Cookies first opened to present day. Essential ingredients such as butter, flour, sugar, and chocolate chips now cost an additional $1,300 monthly, marking a 60% increase. Furthermore, rent has also surged from $1,800 to $3,300.

• Ingredient Price Increase: $1,300 per month (60% rise)
• Rent Increase: From $1,800 to $3,300

Shifts in Consumer Behavior

Since launching during the COVID-19 pandemic, business dynamics have evolved. The initial spike in local support has waned, compounded by rising interest rates and increased living costs. Renshaw noted, “Everybody’s cost of everything’s gone up. People don’t have the money.”

Future Plans

As part of the transition, Coco’s Cookies will move to a smaller location when its lease expires in August. The baking operation will continue as a pickup-only kitchen. Customers are encouraged to place orders via social media, which currently serves as the most accessible communication channel.

The last day for walk-in customers at Coco’s Cookies will be Friday, January 30. This change reflects a broader trend among small businesses adapting to economic challenges while striving to maintain customer connections.