Historic bakery closes, equipment and vans to be auctioned next month

Oddie's Bakery exterior shot of store.
Established in 1905, Oddie's served its community for 120 years before closing down this year. (BPI Asset Advisory)

BPI Asset Advisory is managing the sale of assets from Oddie’s Bakery, a long-established family-run business based in Lancashire following its closure last month.

The 120-year-old bakery, which employed more than 100 people, is based in Nelson, Lancashire, with multiple locations across the county including Burnley and Colne.

The business was founded in 1905 by William Henry Oddie and had been under the leadership of his relative Lara Oddie.

Despite its rich history, the bakery has been forced to shut down after its failed to secure a sale deal. This follows mounting operational challenges due to Covid pandemic pressures, rising energy costs, inflation and declining high-street footfall.

“We do thank all the loyal Oddie’s customers over the last 120 years and place on record our thanks to staff who have worked for the business, especially for their efforts and continued commitment since the initial consultation announcement,” the company said in a statement.

The bakery has now enlisted the help of asset disposal specialists BPI Asset Advisory, which will be holding an online auction.

The auction will feature the entire contents of Oddie’s Bakery, providing an opportunity for bakeries, food manufacturers and catering businesses to acquire bakery equipment and commercial vehicles at ‘competitive prices’.

The sale showcases a comprehensive range of well-maintained equipment, including industrial baking machinery, commercial ovens and delivery vehicles:

  • 2016-2019 Mercedes Sprinter Panel vans
  • 2016 Mercedes Sprinter Box van
  • Dexmore Pie production line and tooling
  • RONDO Doge automatic pastry brakes
  • Double D Revorack gas ovens
  • Commercial spiral mixers
  • Benier equipment
  • Preparation tables and more

Andy Cromack, director at BPI Asset Advisory, said: “The closure of Oddie’s bakery is undoubtedly a significant loss for Lancashire, given its deep roots in the community. However, we are committed to ensuring the asset disposal process is handled professionally, helping the business recover value from its equipment while giving other businesses the chance to invest in high-quality assets.

“This auction presents a fantastic opportunity for bakeries and food producers to secure well-maintained machinery and vehicles at excellent value, whether for business expansion or upgrading existing operations.”

Viewings will be held 4 March, with the auction is set to close on the 5 March and all collections to be from Nelson, BB9.