News alert: Highland Coffees landlords want to reopen talks

The owners of the West Chimes Street building that is home to Highland Coffees want to reopen lease negotiations with the coffee shop’s owner, Clarke Cadzow. The move comes one day after Cadzow announced he would close the business, which has been a fixture in the North Gates neighborhood for 25 years, on Christmas Eve because he was unable to come to terms on a new lease with the building’s owners. The announcement prompted outrage from loyal customers, who flocked to social media sites and signed an online petition to save the business. “We didn’t want Highland Coffees to move,” says Hank Saurage, one of the landlords. “We are willing to reopen these negotiations with Clarke, and we are hopeful his loyal customers will understand we need their support as well.” It is unclear if or when the two sides may meet. Cadzow could not be reached for comment.—Stephanie Riegel