Hemel Hempstead cafe owner announces retirement and return to his homeland of Australia
A cafe owner in Hemel Hempstead has announced his retirement and plans to return to his home country.
Phil Abbott, has been the friendly face behind the counter at Brunch in Marlowes Shopping Centre for 12 years.
Phil confirmed he is planning to hang up his apron later this month to enjoy retirement. He purchased what has been described as an underperforming cafe over a decade ago and helped change the reputation of the coffee site.
His goal for the cafe was to provide the best customer service possible to Hemel shoppers. He says the cafe became more than a business to him and it felt more like he was undertaking a ‘community service’.
“A lot of people come to us because we have friendly staff who take the time to talk to them,” Phil says. “In a world where people can often feel lonely, we’ve provided a happy space for the local community to meet, catch up, and feel welcome.”
Phil announced he is returning to live in his home country of Australia. While he has enjoyed the perks of UK life, notably the proximity to Europe for travel, he is looking forward to returning to the open ‘space’ he can enjoy Down Under.
During his 12-year period overseeing operations at Brunch, Phil had to cope with the challenges of a pandemic and an increasingly-difficult retail landscape. Phil says he had to constantly “refresh and evolve” and noted how the difficulties high street businesses face can be seen in the UK where major department stores like Debenhams have made way for independent retailers. He believes businesses can survive by offering something chains cannot: a personal, owner-driven service.
Phil says as he prepares for his final weeks at the café, that he will deeply miss the Hemel Hempstead community and his loyal customers. “I just want to be remembered as a ‘good bloke’ and an asset to the Marlowes community,” Phil adds. “To all the customers who have supported me over the years, I wish you all the very best of luck, happiness, and health.”
A series of tributes to Phil’s time at Brunch have been posted since his retirement was announced. One said: “Thank you for being kind and welcoming.” Another added: “The Marlowes won’t be the same without you.”
One staff member said: “Thank you for everything you will be missed by the whole team.”