Award-winning Morecambe chowder boss announces difficult decision to step down

The owner of an award-winning firm known for its seafood chowder has announced he will step back from running the company.

Pete Stephenson of Morecambe Bay Chowder Co posted on social media on Wednesday to announce that he "simply can't financially justify continuing".

Morecambe Bay Chowder Co was formed in 2021 aiming to "serve coastal comfort food celebrating the produce of Morecambe Bay".

Pete's seafood stall has been a regular at local events and festivals, and for a time also served the delicious chowder at the Bath Tap pub on Northumberland Street.

"It's the end of an era," he wrote.

"After a great deal of thought, I've decided to step back from running Morecambe Bay Chowder Co.

"This has been a really really difficult decision. I love being out serving you.

"On Saturday night, knowing it was my last one, I was the last trader to pack up at Light Up Lancaster. Just didn't want it to end.

"Unfortunately the reality is, we've tried a few versions of the business now. Increasing costs and loss of Morecambe festivals have been factors.

"Regardless, we've reached a point where we simply can't financially justify continuing.

"I'm exploring options for the brand's future, including a new owner or a smaller seasonal return at some point.

"Nothing is confirmed so I can't promise what comes next.

"You've supported me from the beginning. And I'm so sorry if you feel let down.

"I'll always remember the days on the prom and taking part in festivals.

Pete and Helen Stephenson

"All the chats we had and the kind comments about our food. Thank you so so much.

"There are still a few more services before I finish next month. They are on the calendar and on our website. It'll be great to see you and thank you in person."

Several people posted in support of Pete and Morecambe Bay Chowder Co, in response.

Iain said: "I'm really sad to read this. Your chowder is amazing and you and Harry certainly brought something different to the sea front at Morecambe and the other places that you served over the years. Good luck with whatever the future brings."

Andrea said: "So very sorry to hear this. Your food is delicious. I hate to hear about local businesses struggling financially. It’s so tough out there. Take care and I wish you all the best for the future."

And Ruth said: "Thank you, thank you for being the reason I ventured out, for feeding me when I’d had one too many beers, the random nights turning up to a corner shop to get food I’d been looking forward to all day, for the summer night in Heysham sat on the prom eating chowder and drinking wine with the sun on my face. We’ve been with you every step of the way and loved every minute of it. We’ll be ready and waiting for your return, whatever form it takes."

Morecambe Bay Chowder Co's signature recipe was developed during the Covid lockdown, and then a community crowdfunding campaign raised funds for a solar-powered tricycle, enabling the business to serve chowder at a variety of locations throughout the region.

The company has won a Booths Accelerator Award and a Bay Business Creative Innovation Award, and been a finalist in the Taste Lancashire Producer Awards, the Red Rose Green Awards and the North West Family Business Awards.