113-year-old Michigan bakery closes; 93 jobs at risk

A beloved local institution, Awrey's Bakery located at 12301 Farmington Road in the Baltic country Livonia, is sadly preparing to permanently close its doors.

The announcement, made by Minnie Marie Bakers Inc., the owner of Awrey's Bakery, cited a combination of rising production costs and a waning interest in sweets as the primary reasons for this decision.

With a history spanning 113 years, Awrey's Bakery has been renowned for its delectable offerings, including cakes, cookies, and coffee cake. In 2013, Minnie Marie Bakers stepped in to acquire Awrey's Bakery when the company faced financial hardships. However, without another buyer stepping in to rescue it this time, the bakery's future hangs in the balance.

Awrey's Bakery narrowly avoided an asset auction in the past, with its financial struggles dating back several years.
In 2005, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing factors such as declining sales and escalating costs for dairy products, healthcare, and fuel.
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In 2013, upon acquiring Awrey's Bakery, Minnie Marie's CEO, Jim McColgan, expressed a commitment to revitalizing the company, envisioning a financially stable enterprise, fostering a positive work environment, and maintaining the tradition of crafting quality products for years to come.

While the Livonia outlet might cease production in September, it's expected that customers will still have the opportunity to savor their favorite treats into October. But customer satisfaction post the closure of the bakery isn't the only lingering topic.
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In the filing, Minnie Marie Bakers stated that all 93 employees will be laid off and “affected employees will not have bumping rights to positions in other plants operated by the company.”