Stacks Frankston closed: Karingal Hub development blamed for pancake restaurant shut down

The family behind a once booming Frankston eatery has blamed a major development for the business’ failure.

Stacks Pancakes Karingal owners Seng (L) and Scott (R) Sullivan say they have been forced to shut down their restaurant due to the Karingal Hub redevelopment. Picture: Facebook

Two Frankston restaurateurs have blamed the $150 million Karingal Hub development for the failure of their business.

Stacks Pancake Bar Karingal owners Seng and Scott Sullivan have announced the closure of their restaurant, pointing the finger at increased rent and lack of construction compensation as a result of the renovations.

The couple has proudly ran the family-owned shop for 12 years, serving pancakes, burgers, milkshakes and more.

Ms Sullivan took to Facebook to break the news to locals, with the post — including a picture of heavy machinery operating outside the restaurant’s window — attracting more than 1200 comments.

The shut down comes after the business implemented delivery and outdoor dining options to weather coronavirus restrictions.

“With a very heavy broken heart I have to announce our restaurant will cease trading on Sunday,” Ms Sullivan said.

“Having a pandemic and lockdown really tested us all … but having a $150m major development is an entirely different challenge we have had since February last year.

“With six months until completion, our landlords have given no construction compensation and have invoiced increased, full rent beginning April 1.

“No business can survive in the environment we have at our doorstep.”

The family claims “no business” could survive having construction works on their doorstep. Picture: Stacks Pancake Bar

The business was famous for its mouth-watering desserts. Picture: Stacks Pancake Bar

The renovations are set to bring alfresco dining, new cafes, a fresh food market and outdoor area to the precinct.

Aldi and Coles supermarkets join a reinvigorated Woolworths and 550 new car spots will spread across a multi-level car park, carrying the number of free spaces to more than 2600.

Hundreds of customers expressed their sadness over the Sullivan’s restaurant on social media.

“While Karingal Hub needed an overhaul and it was many years overdue you made yourselves a real niche. I grew up in Frankston and pancakes and the movies was how we did birthdays as a kid, now the greed and short-sightedness of your landlord has ruined that,” Robert James said.

“This is very sad to read, my family’s had many occasions here … lovely staff and the food is to die for,” Jodie Phillips said.

“What ever happened to looking after small businesses and hard working Aussies … absolute disgrace,” Judith Meehan wrote.

A Kaingal Hub spokeswoman said management had supported businesses throughout the redevelopment and the coronavirus outbrek.

The woman did not comment on the Sullivan’s business closure or claims regarding construction compensation and increased rent.

“We will continue to work together going forward as we move towards the relaunch of the redeveloped shopping centre and beyond,” she said.

Ms Sullivan encouraged the community to book in for the last rounds of pancakes this week.

“As gut-wrenching and emotional as it will be, it’s time to say goodbye,” she said.

“Like our pancakes we will rise again.”