Cornish Bakery sales jump 24% in record summer

Cornish Bakery has reported record trading over the summer, with total sales up 24% year-on-year and like-for-like sales rising 8% in August.

The independent chain said it had its biggest ever week of sales during the August bank holiday, with several branches also setting new individual records. 

The figures contrast with data from the Confederation of British Industry, which reported a decline in retail spending over the same period.

The business, founded in Cornwall but now operating nationally, attributed the performance to increased customer numbers and higher average order values. Recent openings in Hereford and Woodbridge, as well as the expansion of its York Coney Street site and refurbishment of York Colliergate, were said to have exceeded expectations.

The company plans further openings this autumn, with five more locations in advanced discussions for early 2026.

Cornish Bakery also reported a Net Promoter Score – a measure of customer satisfaction – of 72% based on reviews posted online. 

Mat Finch, managing director of Cornish Bakery, said: “Our founder, Steve Grocutt, has long said that ‘bakery is the new coffee shop’, and we’re seeing that trend play out. The premium bakery segment is growing faster than traditional coffee shops, and customers are seeking fresher, higher-quality food that’s baked and served on-site, not wrapped in plastic.

“We are so proud of our teams for delivering a record summer with strong like-for-like growth, fulsome customer queues at our newest bakeries, and our biggest ever week of sales. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and their passion is what drives our success.”

The company said it credits its growth to a people-first culture and investment in staff training, internal promotion and recognition schemes. It has recently launched a programme under the banner ‘Change Hospitality for Good’, aiming to position itself as a leading workplace in the sector.