One of Australia’s well-known bakery chains, Michel’s Patisserie, is set to close all its remaining stores, including its store inside shopping centre HomeCo Lutwyche.
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The decision was announced by Retail Food Group (RFG), the company behind the brand, which attributed the closures to various challenges preventing future growth.
According to an RFG spokesperson, despite Michel’s Patisserie’s long-standing presence in Australia’s retail food sector, an internal review revealed several obstacles to sustaining the brand’s expansion.
As a result, franchise owners are being encouraged to transition their businesses to either the Gloria Jean’s brand or Donut King, two other RFG-owned chains.
The spokesperson also mentioned that both Gloria Jean’s and Donut King present promising opportunities for Michel’s Patisserie franchisees who are considering their business prospects in the short or long term.
A Legacy of Baked Goods and Coffee
Like other stores under the brand, the Lutwyche location was best known for its exclusive coffee blends and baked goods, ranging from cakes to quiches. Michel’s Patisserie was a popular destination for customers seeking high-quality pastries, birthday cakes, and savoury treats, making its closure a significant shift in the Australian café and bakery scene.
The news has left many long-time patrons disappointed, as the brand had established itself as a go-to for affordable and delicious treats. With the upcoming closures, customers will have to look elsewhere for their favourite Michel’s Patisserie offerings.
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About Michel’s Patisserie
Michel’s Patisserie was founded in Sydney in 1980 by French chef Michel Cattoen and his wife Elisabeth. Initially a small operation, it rapidly grew in popularity before being sold in 1988 to Noel Carroll and Noel Roberts. Under new ownership, the brand expanded across Australia, gaining a reputation for its European-inspired baked goods and coffee.
Retail Food Group acquired Michel’s Patisserie in 2007, overseeing the chain during its peak when it had over 300 locations nationwide. However, by 2025, only 19 stores remained, all of which are now set to be either closed or converted into other RFG brands.
The closure marks the end of an era for the brand that once dominated the Australian bakery landscape. For loyal customers, the transition away from Michel’s Patisserie signals a significant change in the country’s café and bakery offerings.
Published 14-February-2025