After 14 years in business, Beyu Caffe will be closing its downtown Durham location next week, owner Dorian Bolden announced on social media Tuesday.
The last day of operation will be June 19.
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"Downtown Durham has been our home and heart, but with changing dynamics such as high parking rates, ongoing construction, and the impact of remote work, we’ve seen a significant drop in activity that we can no longer sustain. Despite our best efforts and the incredible support from you all, it’s become clear that we can’t continue in this environment," Bolden wrote on Facebook.
He said the decision wasn't made lightly. "We’ve voiced our concerns alongside many other local businesses, but without urgent action to support downtown, we cannot continue to absorb the financial strain."
While this will mark the end of the cafe at 341 W. Main St., Bolden wrote that the other locations will remain.
"We are not saying goodbye to the community we love. We will focus on our other locations and ventures, and we hope to find new ways to bring the joy of Beyu to you all," Bolden wrote.
Beyu has locations at RDU International Airport, Boxyard RTP, Duke University's Bryan Center and at Duke Law School. The company has also expanded into coffee with signature blends available for purchase online.
A spokesperson for the city provided WRAL News with the following statement on Beyu's closing:
“We realize there are a lot of variables, some beyond our control, impacting downtown Durham businesses. For those we can control, such as construction activity, we have committed to step up enforcement against violations and management of other activities that impede or block access to local businesses. Durham, like other similar cities, is managing the challenges of growth, especially in this post- COVID and remote work environment – which has impacted the government operations as well. That said, we are saddened to see businesses close as a result, and we pledge to continue to work with businesses and residents to find solutions that will make it easier for us all to navigate this unprecedented time as we work to meet the many needs of our growing downtown.”