NECI to consolidate Montpelier bakery and cafe

The New England Culinary Institute is planning to consolidate its long-running café and bakery in Vermont's capital city with its flagship restaurant in downtown Montpelier as part of an effort to get a grasp on its finances.

The Times Argus reports NECI President Milan Milasinovic said La Brioche's lease expires Dec. 31 and the bakery will co-locate with the nearby NECI, which is closed during the day.

The institute will also reduce food service at the Vermont College of Fine Arts.

Milasinovic says it's a tough time for higher education for trade schools like NECI because many prospective students prefer to go to work rather than pay to go back to school.

Two decades ago, NECI had about 800 students. This year there are 85.

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