The ax falls once again in the world of catering as the café-restaurant Les Colocs in the Limoilou district has just declared bankruptcy. The trade of 3e Avenue had been temporarily closed for several months.
The business, which was going to celebrate its 26 years of existence, had nevertheless announced a resumption of its activities last May. Several advertisements to hire staff were also published during the same period.
It all ultimately ended in a bankruptcy worth nearly $130,000 filed on November 15.
The Journal tried to contact the owner, Martin Côté, without success.
Nearly a year ago, he spoke to one of our journalists about the endless construction sites that have been angering traders and citizens for two summers in Vieux-Limoilou.
Mr. Côté did not hide the fact that his income had fallen drastically.
Pandemic and construction sites
According to Martin Claveau, president of the board of directors of SDC 3e Avenue, the pandemic and the numerous construction sites are undoubtedly not unrelated to this business decision.
“That [Les Colocs] worked for years, he lets it go. Maybe he lacked a little motivation.”
Mr. Claveau also indicates that he tried to contact Mr. Côté, but also without success.
The owner of the business opened a second branch, in the Maizerets area, several years ago. He had taken over the former premises of the Popote, papote et gossip restaurant on Chemin de la Canardière.
“I think it didn’t work at all and I have the impression that it hurt him,” observes the president of SDC 3e Avenue.
Mr. Côté was also the subject of a warning from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) in 2022. A problem of compliance with the labeling of pots of chili con carne and spaghetti sauce ensured that the customer did not have the information necessary for their safe consumption. No cases of illness associated with the consumption of these foods had been reported to MAPAQ.
Many restaurants have closed their doors in recent years in the Limoilou area. This is particularly the case of La Baraque Gourmande, the Capriccio pizzeria and Le Maizerets.
“We must expect that unfortunately there will be others,” laments Mr. Claveau.
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