The business announced the closure in a statement on Instagram, saying trading conditions had become increasingly difficult to sustain, particularly over the previous three months.
The venue, at Goods Yard Street, was established in 2024 by the teams behind Trof, Manchester Union Brewery and Monton-based Wandering Palate.
Trading Route said it had spent its first 12 months operating amid ongoing construction in an area still described as ‘up-and-coming’. Describing itself as the only independent business in the area, it had relied on footfall increasing to support the business but said that growth had not materialised quickly enough.
‘We needed footfall to grow to support what we were building,’ the statement reads. ‘Unfortunately, that growth hasn’t materialised quickly enough.’
The venue drew inspiration from central European beer halls, combining a lagerhouse with rotisserie ovens and a food menu that included focaccia sandwiches, bratwurst, Bavarian Manc & cheese, desserts and bar snacks.
Its offering also included a pantry of specialist provisions, such as fine wines and artisanal cheeses, alongside other products.
Trading Route described itself as ‘the home of the foam’, bringing together Manchester Union Brewery and Wandering Palate.
In its closing announcement, the business thanks its customers and supporters over its two years of trading while also acknowledging the impact on its staff.
‘To our team, we’re deeply sorry we couldn’t make it work for you,’ the statement says, adding that the friendships formed over the past two years meant a great deal to the business.
The owners concluded the announcement by calling for support for the #VATstheproblem campaign to reduce VAT for hospitality businesses to 10%.
‘It’s too late for us, but you could help save your favourite places,’ the statement says. ‘Independent bars, restaurants and pubs need your support to keep their doors open.’