We Mean Business: Cafe owner grateful for ‘non-stop’ start to 2026 despite ‘tough’ time for independents
A cafe owner has expressed her gratitude for a “non-stop” start to 2026 despite a “tough” time for independents at the moment.
Launched at the start of the month, the Chronicle & Echo’s new campaign hopes to help curb future business closures after a bleak start to 2026 across the town.
The twice-weekly stories spotlight what Northampton stands to lose if your favourite businesses were to close down, highlight the biggest challenges they currently face, and encourage greater support from the powers that be and the community before it is too late.
Laura Hughes, founder and owner of Genevieve’s Cafe on Dragonfly Way, Pineham village, is the latest to contribute to We Mean Business. The venue opened in May 2024 in the hope of becoming a vibrant community hub.
They offer drinks, breakfast, brunch, lunch and cakes, with a small soft play area to entertain children and a dog-friendly space. It is a relaxing, friendly and welcoming environment for all, with a focus on high quality customer service.
Let’s see what Laura had to say…
How would you summarise your experience of running an independent business in Northampton at the moment?
“It’s definitely tough but still really enjoyable for me,” said Laura. “I know there’s been a lot of closures but we have been so busy since the beginning of the year – it’s been non-stop. Costs are going up and it’s tough for us, but we’re so grateful that customers really do support us.”
What are the biggest challenges you currently face as a business owner, and what impact do these have on the daily running of your venture?
Alongside VAT, business rates, PAYE and staff wages, Laura explained that supplier costs are rising. She understands that they have had to up their fees because of the rising costs they face, which has a knock-on effect to businesses like Genevieve’s.
“It’s just a lot of payments,” said Laura. “There’s so many more outgoings than you realise and the little bits the public don’t see. We’re always paying out for something, like getting the extractor fan cleaned or when cutlery and crockery break.”
What more do you believe could be done by the local authority and national government to minimise your current challenges and ensure your survival throughout 2026?
Laura said: “Reducing VAT for the hospitality sector would make a huge difference to us as a small business. I don’t feel I can increase my prices anymore than I have. I will have to pay my staff more from April, which I’m happy to do as we wouldn’t exist without them.”
The founder concluded that it would be beneficial to have access to more grants, to purchase new equipment or invest in further training to build on the skill of staff members.
What do you believe Northampton stands to lose if your business were to close down? What unique offerings do you bring to the town that would be sorely missed?
“We bring a really unique venue that offers food made from scratch, even down to the sauces,” said Laura. “We make it all here. We welcome families and dogs, and there’s a community feel. This is somewhere people can come along, relax and be comfortable.”
What small actions can our readers and the Northampton community take to support your business in 2026?
Laura said that if people cannot afford to pay Genevieve’s a visit, liking and sharing social media posts is crucial – as well as leaving a positive review if they have popped in before.
“Even if it’s just for a cup of tea, every little penny does help,” said Laura, who is excited to introduce roasts on Sunday afternoons and has exciting plans for Mother’s Day celebrations.