From long-standing high street names to much-loved independents, this year has been a tough one for Yorkshire’s business community.
Shifting consumer habits, rising costs and a challenging economic backdrop have all played a part, leaving familiar shopfronts dark and forcing the end of stories that once felt permanent.
In this article, we look back at 12 businesses Yorkshire said goodbye to this year, each one a reminder of how quickly the local landscape can change, and of the people, places and memories tied up in them.
9. The Old Red Bus Station
This venue and vegan eatery on Vicar Lane in Leeds closed in January due to the "unassailable task of fighting the cost of living crisis". Photo: National World
10. The Expanse Bridlington
The landmark hotel in Bridlington which has been run by the same family for nearly 90 years said they had been forced to close in January by “difficult trading conditions”. The Expanse was built in 1937 by Edmond Cooper Briggs and has been run by four generations of the family. Photo: Google
11. Thieves Market
Thieves Market on Carlton Street in Castleford served up a range of Asian-inspired street food using locally sourced ingredients alongside craft beers, however it was announced on social media in January that the popular pink façade of the fusion restaurant would be no more. Photo: Yorkshire Evening Post
12. Spanton
Spanton's of Whitby opened in 1883 as a gentleman's outfitters on Flowergate, and was run by founder Robert Spanton's family until 1974. Now it has closed after 142 years in business. Current owner Karen Noble, who bought the business in 2019 and retained the historic name, announced its closure at the end of December 2024 due to her retirement. Photo: Google