BAKERY ASSETS GO ON AUCTION

Historic Lancashire Bakery Sells Off Equipment After 120 Years of Service

One of Lancashire’s oldest family-run bakeries, which served its community for 120 years before closing, is now auctioning off its equipment.

Oddie’s Bakery, based in Nelson and established in 1905, ceased operations due to mounting challenges, including the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, rising energy costs, inflation, and a decline in high street footfall.

The bakery, once a thriving business with 13 locations, was renowned for its freshly baked bread, hand-crafted confectionery, pies, and savouries. After initially seeking a buyer for the business, the company was unable to secure a rescue deal.

As a result, Oddie’s Bakery has appointed BPI Asset Advisory to manage the sale of its assets. The auction will include a wide range of items, such as industrial baking machinery, commercial ovens, and delivery vehicles—offering a valuable opportunity for bakeries, food manufacturers, and catering businesses looking to expand or upgrade their equipment.

Andy Cromack, director at BPI Asset Advisory, commented:

"The closure of Oddie’s Bakery is a great loss for Lancashire, given its deep-rooted connection to the community. However, we are dedicated to ensuring the asset sale is handled professionally, helping the business recover value while providing other businesses the opportunity to invest in high-quality equipment at competitive prices."

In November 2024, company director Lara Oddie reflected on the bakery’s resilience over the years:

"We have withstood two world wars, the Great Depression, the decline of Lancashire's cotton industry, the rise of supermarkets, and even the challenges of the Covid pandemic, which forced us to adapt our operations. However, with soaring energy costs and declining footfall, the family ultimately made the difficult decision to sell."

"As a family business, we have always been deeply connected to our community. This closure is heartbreaking for us, our dedicated staff, and our loyal customers in Burnley and Pendle who have supported our unique products over the years."

The auction will close on Wednesday, March 5, from 11 am, with collections available in Nelson (BB9). Viewing appointments will take place on Tuesday, March 4. Interested buyers can direct inquiries to [email protected], and full auction details are available on BPI’s website.

This sale marks the final chapter for a beloved local institution, but it also presents a unique opportunity for businesses to acquire well-maintained bakery equipment from a historic family enterprise.