Another Kelowna company has succumbed to the coronavirus pandemic.
Start Fresh – A Collaborative Kitchen Inc. closed its doors for a good Thursday night.
Michael Buffett, owner and head chef at 1708 Dolphin Avenue restaurant, said in a heartfelt social media post, “Unfortunately, this ongoing pandemic has turned mine upside down and as a result my business, Start Fresh, is closing permanently.” “
Buffett said the decision to close was based on the aftermath of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, an uncertain business climate, business restrictions, and the general malaise caused by COVID-19.
“Due to the current COVID restrictions, catering establishments / businesses will not be able to return to normal operations anytime soon. We have worked diligently throughout the pandemic to keep business going, but recently it has been found to be easy is not the case. ” possible. Thank you for the support you have shown Start Fresh over the past four years. “
The company concluded its fifth anniversary as a social concept that offered a wide range of high-end catering services and dining experiences, as well as a free training program for underemployed community members to help them find meaningful work.
Buffett says, “Over the past year, the executive team has worked hard to keep the business going. Start Fresh focused on virtual cooking classes and online events, then moved again to build an online grocery delivery business. It is impossible to predict what the next year will be. ” will look like this and consumer demand is low, largely due to uncertainty about the possibility of hosting events. “
Buffett says the past year has been very challenging, including two years of weddings, canceled events, refunds, and no money to pay wages. The owner decided it was time for something new.
“Time to go out and get a real job,” said boss Michael. “Serving this community has been the best I’ve ever done, and I hope I can find another way to keep doing just that.”
