Number 178 closed

Number 178, the New Cross cafe that combined quality, low prices and social purpose, has closed. The move is permanent, as founder Luke explains:

Unfortunately we were unable to reach financial sustainability. As a social enterprise we had to certain restrictions on how we could operate and adapt to changes in the market. A lot of businesses are feeling a prolonged squeeze at the moment due to stagnant wages and increased competition. 

Furthermore our end of New Cross Rd is slowly filling up with high profit margin/low overheads businesses such as estate agents which kills off a healthy independent business ecosystem.

However, Luke and the brand could be making a local comeback in some form soon. He promises more details as soon as he's able to share them.