‘We had no say’: Iconic decades-old bakery to shut down as multinational moves in

A family-owned bakery in Sydney is being forced to leave its location of nearly 30 years, as the landlord prepares for the arrival of a major national chain.

A much-loved Sydney family bakery is getting the boot from its home of almost 30 years, and it just so happens the landlord is welcoming the return of a national chain.

Classic Bakery owners Van and Tina Huynh, who currently occupy Winston Hills Mall in Western Sydney, have run the bakery there for 28 years, but they’ve recently been told to vacate the shop by February 9.

A red sign currently adorns the bain-marie.

It reads: “Sorry, we’re closing down”.

“Building management has decided not to renew our lease. Unfortunately, we had no say in this decision.

Classic Bakery, a family-owned business in Western Sydney, is being forced to leave its location of nearly 30 years as the landlord prepares for the arrival of a national chain.

“Our last day of business will be on the 9th of February.

“It has been a pleasure serving you and this community for the last 28 years.”

Classic Bakery has been left with little choice but to petition their landlords – with thousands already lending their support.

The business elected not to comment to news.com.au at this stage, and it’s understood negotiations are underway.

The closure comes as Australian-owned multinational chain Baker’s Delight confirms a return to the mall in 2024, with locals quick to perceive a link.

On social media, community members have lamented the closure.

“Thank you, Winston Hills Mall. Shame you didn’t ask the community before making this decision,” one wrote.

The closure sparked community outrage and a petition to save the bakery has already garnered thousands of signatures.

“How wrong is that? Just goes to show how the big people can walk over the little people,” another local added.

Former Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne stated: “Hopefully, common sense prevails”.

“It is no surprise that the community is rallying around Tina and Van and supporting them in their fight to save their bakery,” she said.

“So far they have collected over 3000 signatures from locals wanting the bakery to remain.

“Also, this morning, numerous residents gathered outside the bakery to show their support.”

Classic Bakery has fought to remain open before.

In December 2008, the bakery appealed for public support on Facebook with a “Help Save Classic Bakery” page.

The appeal was successful, with more than 560 members joining.

The bakery was able to renew its lease as a result.

Winston Hills Mall management has been contacted for comment.