Eddie’s Sweet Shop in Dijon to Close Permanently

Dijon. Le magasin de bonbons Eddie’s Sweet shop va fermer : « La fréquentation est insuffisante »

After eight years of serving sweet treats to locals and visitors alike, Eddie’s Sweet Shop, located at 47 rue du Bourg in the heart of Dijon’s city centre, will close its doors permanently on Saturday, 23 May 2026.

The confectionery, which has offered more than 350 varieties of bulk sweets, American and Asian imports since its opening in 2018, is shutting down due to declining footfall and changing consumer habits, according to owner Eddie De March.

Despite a loyal customer base, the shop has struggled to maintain sufficient visitor numbers, particularly from passing trade and those arriving by car, as more consumers turn to online shopping.

De March confirmed that he has chosen not to renew the commercial lease upon its expiry, citing both the drop in patronage and his own retirement as key factors in the decision.

“The footfall is insufficient. Despite loyal customers, we have lost the local traffic that used to come by car, and there has also been a shift in consumption habits with online purchases,” he said.

Over the years, the shop became more than just a retail outlet; it evolved into a community hub where generations of families gathered. De March spoke fondly of the relationships built over nearly a decade of service.

“We have formed bonds, I have seen children grow up, and some still call me affectionately ‘Uncle Sweet’,” he remarked, using the French nickname “Tonton Bonbon” that has become synonymous with his presence behind the counter.

Although there was initial consideration of finding a successor to keep the business running, De March ultimately ruled it out due to the unfavourable economic climate and lack of viable interest in taking over the lease.

Looking ahead, the soon-to-be-retiree said he plans to enjoy a well-earned break after years of limited time off, emphasizing that he has rarely taken more than two weeks of vacation during his tenure.

As of now, the premises at 47 rue du Bourg have not attracted a replacement tenant, marking the end of an era for one of Dijon’s most beloved independent sweet shops.