The dream of a man has faded in just a few days. Cyrille Auffret, a Breton pizza maker, brilliantly won the prestigious World Pizza Trophy in Menton. However, barely back from this achievement, a new reality shatters his happiness: he must close his establishment. In a poignant message, he declares: “Distributors have killed us”, revealing the heavy burdens of the difficulties faced against these intermediaries that have led to the downfall of his dream.
Why did a champion pizza maker have to close his establishment?
Cyrille Auffret, a Breton pizza maker, experienced an unforgettable moment during the World Pizza Trophy in Menton. Crowned champion in certain categories, he thought he was finally on the right track to develop his career. However, shortly after receiving this prestigious title, he announced the closure of his pizzeria in the town of Trégunc. This turnaround is all the more cruel as it results from ongoing problems faced with suppliers and distributors.
In a poignant message shared on social media, Cyrille expressed his feelings and explained how, despite his success, his establishment could not survive. Supply difficulties with distributors led to tough choices, and his hard work was not enough to keep the pizzeria afloat. This is a bitter reality for this passionate craftsman, who had invested time and resources to achieve his goals in the trade.
What obstacles did this pizza maker face in his career?
The challenges faced by Cyrille are not limited to supply issues. He speaks of an increasingly complex and competitive environment where unreliable distributors harm the financial health of artisans. The difficulties intensified: “We had problems with five distributors who, since August, have not operated as expected.” These incidents are not just logistical troubles; they reflect a crisis affecting many professionals in the restaurant industry.
In the face of these difficulties, it becomes clear that the prices of raw materials are rising, making management even more complicated for small businesses. Pizza makers like Cyrille try to remain competitive while preserving the quality of their products. Such a struggle raises questions about the long-term viability of small establishments. The health of the artisan restaurant sector is being undermined by the choices of large distributors.
Why was the closure of his establishment so painful for him?
Cyrille confided that closing his pizzeria represents much more than a simple professional loss. It is a true personal heartbreak. In ten years of marriage, his wife had never seen him cry, and the day he had to make this announcement was a moment of intense sadness. The dream of passing this culinary art onto his children has vanished. The memories of their joy discovering his trophies create a bitter and poignant contrast with the current reality.
The decision to close the pizzeria was made after unsuccessfully attempting to negotiate with the distributors. The feeling of betrayal and helplessness is palpable. What parent could not be struck by such a situation? Cyrille thus mentioned a hard truth: “Distributors have killed us!” Indeed, this phrase resonates as a cry from the heart for all artisans struggling to survive in an increasingly difficult market.
What support has Cyrille received in this situation?
Following the announcement of the closure, Cyrille received unexpected messages of support from friends, loyal customers, and colleagues in the sector. This network highlighted the solidarity and empathy within the artisan community. Many voiced their similar experiences while offering comforting words during this difficult time.
- Creation of an online fund: Suggestions were made to help Cyrille financially during this critical period.
- Messages of sympathy: Many messages were left on his social media, affirming the impact of his talent on their culinary experience.
- Community support: Artisans and chefs from the region have come forward to offer their help and share advice.
What are the consequences of this closure on the local sector?
The closure of an establishment like Cyrille’s has repercussions that go far beyond the doors closing. It is also a symbol of the struggles faced by other local restaurateurs who struggle to stand out against the power of large chains. Each artisan whose story follows the same path leaves behind a part of culture and expertise, that of traditional cuisine.
Loyal customers also lose a place of conviviality where they used to gather to share a pleasant moment. The loss of a pizzeria cherished by the community is a severe blow that can diminish the attractiveness of a region. Culinary memory is gradually fading, making way for an environment where profit seems to take precedence. This closure raises questions about the future of the artisan image in France, where craftsmanship must be preserved.
The journey of Cyrille Auffret, a pizza maker recently crowned world champion in Menton, highlights the challenges faced by artisans against increasingly dominant distributors. The closure of his establishment, after a long-awaited victory, raises questions about the economic sustainability of small businesses. The meteoric rise of this artisan, who has put his region on the world map, collides with the harsh reality of the food industry.
The expressions of support for Cyrille testify to the emotional impact of his situation. It is a call for solidarity that resonates through these messages. Cyrille’s poignant phrase, “Distributors have killed us!”, resonates with palpable sadness, symbolizing the fierce struggle of artisans who see their passion threatened by often dehumanized commercial logics.
This closure is not just that of a pizzeria, but takes on a symbolic character, that of the resistance of small producers against the giants of the industry. It compels each of us to reflect on the choices we make regarding consumption and the importance of supporting our local artisans.
