A staple in the Dublin vegan community, Vegan Sandwich Co (VSC), has sadly announced both Stephen's Green and Smithfield locations are now closed.

"The last few months have truly been some of the most difficult since we started trading and I am so sorry to say that both Vegan Sandwich Co stores are now closed," VSC wrote on Twitter.

The last few months have truly been some of the most difficult since we started trading and I am so sorry to say that both Vegan Sandwich Co stores are now closed. pic.twitter.com/J1TW3aMoIe

— Vegan Sandwich Co (@vegansandwichco) October 5, 2022

Opened by Sam Pearson in 2020 "after one too many encounters with terrible vegan sandwiches," VSC was a pioneer in plant-based food options. They served vegan sandwiches, burgers, kebabs and more made with natural ingredients and in compostable packaging.

VSC opened and closed a new location in Rathmines after less than three months. Between that, "rent doubling in Stephens Green, energy prices going through the roof and weekly increases in ingredient costs," they stated "it's just not possible for us to keep going any longer." Pearson tried to keep the business alive by finding an investment partner, but said "unfortunately, time has run out."

Because of their unique cuisine, VSC managed to develop a wonderful customer-base. Pearson wrote, "To all our customers- you truly are the lifeblood of our business. I have never seen such a dedicated following, ready to support us."

This is far from the first Dublin business forced to close due to the cost of living and energy crisis. Some devastated users wrote on Twitter, "A tragedy that the greed of Dublin landlords is destroying so much," and "Few understand just how difficult it is for small Irish businesses." One user claims "the government doesn't care unless you're a huge group paying big taxes."

Vegan Sandwich Co. closing is truly sad, can only see more local places going as well unfortunately as the government doesn’t care unless you’re a huge group paying big taxes

— Jack (@JackDeegan_) October 5, 2022

Many hope this isn't the end for Vegan Sandwich Co - including Pearson, who ended his statement saying "I am obviously heartbroken at this outcome but still so proud of everything we have achieved. Hopefully I'll see you all again somewhere soon."

I am obviously heartbroken at this outcome but still so proud of everything we have achieved. Hopefully I'll see you all again somewhere soon. ❤️🌱

— Vegan Sandwich Co (@vegansandwichco) October 5, 2022