The café in Princes Gate Shopping Centre will close Feb 28, 2025, after failing to find a solution to rising operation costs.
NAAFI runs the café, serving the UK Armed Forces. They stated the café’s finances were too difficult. Rising costs, including rent, rates, and product prices, made it too costly to continue, despite its popularity.
People tried to save the café, with locals, veterans, and groups offering their support. Over 1,500 people signed a petition, and a social media campaign gained significant support. Actor Anthony Cotton backed the campaign, recognizing it as a social hub, and local council members and MPs aided the effort.
Councillor Kevin Foster valued the café greatly, as it helped military and civilians connect. MP Rishi Sunak agreed with Foster and contacted NAAFI to inquire about the closure decision.
NAAFI explored other solutions to keep the café open, offering to donate the café, including furniture and equipment, and help pay rent. They needed someone to take over, but sadly, no deal was found in time.
A sign now confirms the closure, stating the last day is February 28, 2025. NAAFI aims to offer welcoming spaces for armed forces to relax, and the café provided a safe space for veterans and others who needed it.
Despite these rescue efforts, the café loses too much cash. Operating in Catterick is not sustainable due to rising rent, rates, and product costs. NAAFI must focus on serving the armed forces as a business, sending any surplus funds to forces communities, and keeping the café open hurts other programs.
This closure ends a social cornerstone that mattered to Catterick Garrison. A rescue remains remotely possible, though time is running short, and people are saddened by the loss of this meeting place.