Melbourne-based International Cakes turned on the ovens for the final time earlier this week, signaling the end of the business’s 62-year history.

The Greek bakery, known for serving up baklava, run baba and loukoumi as well as pastries, cakes, tarts and slices, first opened its doors in 1962.

International Cakes owner Bill Batzogioannis, 75, said the time had come for him to retire.

Bill and his former co-owner Manolis Yovanoglou, who left the business five years ago due to ill health, had considered other options for the business but said finding another person to run the business solo was too difficult.

“[Closing affects a lot of people. People knew the shop and they wanted it to continue. They wanted me to continue, but unfortunately I can’t,” Bill told Broadsheet.

“It’s going to affect our people, many people are sad to see us going.”

In a note to the community Bill wrote, “We have cherished the relationships we have built with each and every one of our loyal customers and are sincerely grateful for your continued support throughout the years.”

“It has been an honour to serve you and be a part of your lives.”

Bill told the Herald Sun that he’d first considered closing the shop five years ago, but had decided to continue on.

“This city suffered so much [during lockdown], I had to go on,” he said.

Bill said the response from the community had been overwhelming, with many visiting the store to buy a cake.

“Ever since they found out we were closing they’ve come and bought all our cakes,” he said.

“They’ve grown up here… the many thousands of customers who have ordered cakes. I’ve had the sweetest customers.”