Owner of popular café in Northampton town centre speaks out on 'very challenging' month of customers leave without paying
The owner of a popular café in Northampton town centre has spoken out after customers left without paying on multiple occasions this month.
Mariola Fuller, owner of Dreams Café on St Giles Street, says the past month has been “very challenging” following several instances of diners leaving without paying.
Mariola took over Dreams Café in June 2025, describing the venture as her “dream come true”. Since then, she has expanded the menu and invested thousands of pounds into renovating the interior to give the café a fresh new look.
However, in a social media post this week, the 29-year-old mother of two said: “I wanted to share a little insight into the reality of running a small business. The past month has been very challenging. With costs rising so quickly, running a café means constantly trying to keep everything fresh, improving week by week, and doing our very best to keep everyone happy. We truly appreciate every single person who walks through our doors and supports us.
“Unfortunately, in the last 30 days we’ve had a few occasions where people have left without paying. As a small team, we can’t always be everywhere at once – and this has left us around £200 down. For a small, independent business, that really does make a difference.
“One recent situation on Thursday, January 22, was particularly upsetting. The customer initially appeared to intend to pay, but after checking twice that the till area was unattended, he chose to leave quickly without settling the bill. This isn’t shared to shame anyone, but as a gentle reminder that honesty and respect matter.
“Every meal is prepared with care, time and hard work, and when someone walks away without paying, it directly affects our small team.
“To those who continue to support us, treat us with kindness, and value what we do – thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You truly keep us going.”
Speaking to the Chronicle and Echo, Mariola added: “I want to make sure everyone understands what’s happening right now. Small businesses are already struggling with the rising costs of running a business.
“Just last month, two cafés on St Giles Street closed down. If this continues, even businesses like ours may not be able to stay open.”
Mariola says she has reported the incidents to the police.