A pizza maker has called for more public support as trade has taken a hit amid a difficult winter season.
Matthew Bain, 45, the owner and head chef at Wood 'n' Dough in Oulton Broad, says he has been forced to bite the bullet and sign up for "highly competitive" delivery services as walk-in customers dwindle.
The change comes as the cost of living crisis continues and people are "watching their pennies".
"After moving to Lowestoft in 2017 I was always on the lookout for a site to sell my authentic pizzas all year round," he said.
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"In October 2022 the opportunity arose in Oulton Broad which is ideally placed in a lovely courtyard with seating close to Everitt Park.
"Early signs were very promising but heading into the winter months and the start of the cost of living crisis the footfall soon dropped and I was reluctant to join the big delivery sites due to the crushing commission fees."
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According to Mr Bain, trade ebbed and flowed in the past two years which eventually led to the decision to sign up for Just Eat and Deliveroo.
But poor weather last summer led to a "knock-on effect" that continues to affect the solo businessman despite the online exposure.
He added: "We rely heavily on the holiday seasons and people tend to watch their pennies heading into the winter.
"I think we really need a call for people to re-discover small businesses in the local area because they would be surprised what little gems are out there."
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