Cornwall is furious as Greggs opens first bakery in the pasty town
Greggs has caused quite a stir in West Country after announcing plans to introduce a store in Cornwall's only city.
As many of you will know, Cornish pasties are synonymous with the southwestern county - as are its beautiful beaches.
In fact, the delicious baked snacks were given a protected geographical indication status in 2011, meaning they can only be called a traditional Cornish pasty if they're made in Cornwall.
It's safe to say locals feel passionately about protecting their national dish, which is why they're not too pleased about Greggs trying to infiltrate the market.
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Last week, the UK bakery chain confirmed to CornwallLive that it is set to open a branch on Truro high street on 6 December, taking over from a former Co-op.
It's certainly not the first time Greggs has tried to win over the Cornish population.
In 2019, it opened a bakery in Saltash, aka 'the Gateway to Cornwall', only to then close seven months later.
The company has since opened two further stores at the Pennygillam Industrial Estate in Launceston and the Cornwall Services by the A30.
However, the Truro branch will be the first launch in the county's only city.
What's more, the Greggs will be situated just a few steps away from traditional Cornish pasty makers Rowe’s and Warrens.
Taking to the comments section of social media posts about the announcement, many Truro residents have joked about a 'full on war' against the chain.
"This is an invasion on our capital," wrote one, while another described Greggs as the 'Devil's spawn'.
A third quipped: "We all knew this day would come. It is now time for all and any Cornishmen/women to do their duty and see this invader off.
"Anyone caught purchasing a steak bake will be taken to the Tamar and shown which way to walk!"
"I don’t think it’ll stay long in Truro. Hardly no one wants it," added a fourth.
"I had a Greggs sausage roll and [it] wasn’t cooked through. Definitely won’t be trying another one."
Speaking to The Telegraph, David Harris, councillor for Gloweth, Malabar and Shortlanesend, said that while it's a risky move, it's ultimately up to the customers to decide.
He said: "Cornish pasties are a very local thing. If you get a good one it’s beautiful. If you get a cheap and cheerful one it’s yuck...
"If people don't buy them they close - it's as simple as that."
Despite the apprehension, Greggs looks set to make the move, with a spokesperson for the company telling the outlet: "We can confirm we are due to open a new shop in Truro later this year.
"We will be sure to share further information in due course."
LADbible has contacted Greggs for further comment.
Topics: Food And Drink, Greggs, UK News
Daisy Phillipson