Cimandis to shut down Guernsey operations by August 2025

Cimandis will cease operations in the Channel Islands, citing economic pressures.

Cimandis announces exit from Guernsey after Jersey closure

Food wholesaler Cimandis will shut down its Guernsey operations by the end of August 2025, shortly after closing its Jersey depot. The decision follows significant economic pressures, including rising shipping costs, increased rent, and logistical hurdles unique to island markets. The closure will also impact services to nearby islands such as Alderney, Herm, and Sark. The number of jobs affected remains unclear. Nigel Holliday, managing director of Cimandis, emphasized that the current economic environment has rendered their business model unsustainable.

Cimandis's exit highlights the broader challenges facing businesses in isolated markets. Rising operational costs can drive firms from regions where they once thrived, signaling a potential shift in how companies approach island economies. As many businesses grapple with similar issues, the continued presence of wholesalers in remote markets may become increasingly uncertain. The public and local policymakers must weigh these economic shifts and their potential impact on community services and employment.

Highlights

This closure is a reflection of the evolving economic landscape for businesses in isolated regions.