Saying “our business has closed” at work
Why it can fall flat
“our business has closed”
The word “closed” sounds abrupt and final, and by itself it leaves people guessing about their work, pay or orders. Most writers want to share the news plainly, explain what it means, and point to a next step.
Say this instead
- 01
I'm writing to let you know that our business closed on June 30 and can no longer complete any work for you. I'll write separately about your final invoice and files.
Client · Email
A good first notice for a client who needs to know the service has ended before you share the practical details.
- 02
Wanted you to hear it from me first: the business has closed as of today. I'm still taking it in myself, so tell me if you'd like to talk.
Coworker · Chat
Suits a close colleague, since it is honest about the news and leaves room for them to react.
- 03
I have difficult news: the business has closed, effective today. I'll share what I know in a team meeting at 3 pm. If anything can't wait, message me directly.
Someone you manage · Email
Fits when you manage the person, because the news comes first and they get a time and a way to reach you.
- 04
Hello, Devon here. Our business has closed and we can't take any new orders. Thank you for your support over the years.
Customer · SMS
Right for a short customer notice, as it says what changes for them and ends with thanks.
- 05
Quick update: the company I worked for has closed, so I'm open to new roles. I can send my updated CV if you have something that fits.
Recruiter / HR · Email
Useful while job hunting, since it explains the change briefly and turns the news into a clear next step.
- 06
Confirming for the record that the business closed today. Let me know what you need from me on handover, such as keys, files or logins.
Boss · Chat
Good for a manager or senior person who needs a clear confirmation and a practical offer of what comes next.
- 07
Hi Lorraine, our business has closed and we can't take on any more work. I'll email you the details about your final invoice today.
Client · SMS
Handy as a fast heads-up to a client you talk to often, with the full details to follow in writing.
Examples
Dear Mr. Rahman, Our business closed on June 30, so we are no longer taking on projects. Your final invoice is attached, and a download link for all your project files will be sent to this address by July 14. If you have questions about either, please contact Harriet Collins at harriet@example.com until July 31. Kind regards, Gareth Ortiz
Hi Ana, thanks for asking. Our business has closed, so no further payments will be taken from today. You can download your past invoices from your account until July 31.
What to avoid
- Putting the news after a long background story makes people wait, so say the business has closed in the first sentence.
- Formal or euphemistic terms like “ceased operations” or “wound down” can feel distant, and “closed” is plainer.
- Guessing at reasons, blaming anyone, or promising pay, refunds or jobs you can't confirm will cause trouble later.
- Leaving people without a next step feels cold, so give a date and a name or contact for questions.
- Exclamation marks and cheerful sign-offs can seem out of touch with the news, so skip them.