PERTH hospitality icon Maud Edmiston has been inundated with messages of support from the public following the temporary closure of her coffee houses and catering arm amid the coronavirus crisis.
The 17 Miss Maud stores, two Cafe Stockholm outlets and 24-hour bakehouse were shut down last week to protect the wellbeing of the team, customers and suppliers.
Ms Edmiston said it was an extremely difficult time for the business, with almost 500 staff stood down, but she had been buoyed by the many kind comments received from customers.
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READ NOWHer thoughts were with the people of Perth and the many others in the hospitality industry who had made similar heartbreaking decisions following the Federal Government’s move to restrict cafes and restaurants to take-away services only.
“I offer my warmest thoughts to the wonderful WA community that has always supported Miss Maud as we navigate this truly unprecedented time,” she said.
“It is the experience, care and consideration that we offer each other that is at the heart of our operation and indeed the WA community.
“This will not change and will be strengthened by our new knowledge as the hospitality industry emerges from this situation to once again become a thriving industry.
“Meanwhile, we will be taking care of our team with access to support updates whenever we can, staying flexible and positive, and working on ways to enhance and refine the Miss Maud experience.”
Ms Edmiston and her few remaining staff face the massive task of cleaning all the business locations, from Joondalup in the north to Mandurah in the south.
She said they would continue to monitor government requirements and recommendations, and update customers via the website.
Leftover food stock was donated to food charity Foodbank WA for its community programs.