Coughlans Bakery, a UK bakery chain co-owned by comedian Romesh Ranganathan, is closing after entering voluntary liquidation. The company says it is shutting down all of its 31 stores following financial pressure attributed to increases in national insurance and business rates. Outlets report that the bakery has been operating since 1937 and that its closure ends almost 100 years of trading. The business has not indicated any alternative restructuring or reopening plan. BBC Business reports that Ranganathan reacts to the news, describing himself as “gutted” over the closure. The Evening Standard and other reports also note his involvement with the chain and that the company is winding down across the full store estate. While the comedian’s comments reflect personal disappointment, the business’ stated rationale focuses on tax and cost pressures, including national insurance and business rates hikes, as contributing factors to the decision to liquidate.