The Great British cake shed phenomenon is facing an uncertain future as local councils consider tightening licensing rules, potentially forcing many home bakers out of business.
These small, self-service sheds, often found in front gardens or driveways, have become a booming side-hustle and even a full-time career for some. Danielle Edgington, from Kings Heath, Birmingham, quit her job as a catering manager after her cake shed brought in up to £1,000 a week. But the dream may be over for many as councils review street trading policies.
Under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, selling goods in a street without a licence is illegal. In Bassettlaw, Nottinghamshire, eight cake shed owners were told they must pay over £1,000 for a street trading licence or face a fine. Following public backlash, enforcement has been paused while the council reviews its policy, but no final decision has been reached.
"A licensing enforcement officer arrived and hand delivered a notice to say I needed a street trading licence. I was flabbergasted," said Heather Price, owner of The Retford Bakeshed. She fears the extra cost would make her business unviable.
The cake shed community has grown rapidly, with one Facebook group gaining 400 new members weekly. Many bakers are now seeking clarification from their local authorities, but the threat of regulation looms large.
For now, the sheds remain a beloved fixture, bringing joy to customers who perform "little happy dances" when opening the doors. But with licensing costs potentially reaching £3,000, the future of this sweet trend hangs in the balance.