Badenoch's pub on Elgin High Street to close
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BADENOCH'S pub on Elgin High Street is set to close after four years in business.
The pub will call last orders for the final time on Saturday, November 5, with around 20 members of staff – four full-time – to be affected by the closure.
General manager Ross Archibald, who has been in the role since the bar opened in December 2018, said a worsening economic outlook had made the closure inevitable.
"There was a lack of money coming in compared to what was going out with the increased costs of food and drink suppliers," he said.
"It's been a battle since Covid started and there has not been enough help from the government for hospitality. A lot of places are a lot worse of than they should be.
"The company did everything they could.
"We want to say a massive thank-you to all staff past and present. We couldn't have asked for a better bunch."
Badenoch's opened with the aim of offering "something a little different" in Elgin – and over the last four years, have certainly achieved that aim.
Just a few months ago, the pub had a wedding in from Wisconsin, USA, while live music nights have entertained customers on numerous occasions.
Despite the obvious upset that comes with closing, Ross was keen to look back on some of the better times and thank pub-goers.
"The customers have been amazing, welcoming and accommodating," he said.
"The staff made Badenoch's what it was, but without the customers we wouldn't have had anyone to share our vibe with.
"The outpouring of support online after we broke the news was amazing."
Many of the staff members that have been left without a job have already had success in finding something new.
"We've had a lot of business owners reach out to say they are looking for new staff and to pass on details," Ross added.
"That's been nice to see, a bit of community."
Businesses interested in enquiring about staff should email hello@badenochs.uk.
Before shutting its doors, Badenoch's will offer 20 per cent of all drinks on Friday night and Saturday night.
"Come out this weekend – and tip well!," Ross joked.
"We are still running our Kids Eat Free promotion and Blue Light Card and Defence Discount cards for food as well."
