Bakers celebrate a year at Umina

Bakers Rosemarie and Joseph Mondal moved from Blacktown to Umina a year ago to open a hot bread franchise.

The couple has two sets of identical twins, one set of which work as apprentice bakers.

"The business has been going well. I am very pleased," said Mrs Mondal of Baker's Delight Umina.

The business celebrated its first birthday on January 3 with a mascot, face painting and balloons.

"Despite the usual ups and downs, we have managed to keep four original staff members," said Mrs Mondal.

"I've really enjoyed training sales staff and seeing them develop," she said.

"We have extremely high standards and it's really good to see the staff adopt these standards.

"It's a really full on business as we are open seven days but we really love living here and enjoy the lifestyle when we can."

Mr Mondal said that his background as a chef has been helpful.

"My training in the handling and preparation of food has come in handy and I was already used to the long working hours," he said.

This year the owners plan to increase marketing to develop and hopefully expand the business.

"We like to introduce new products all the time to keep our range interesting," Mrs Mondal said.

"We've recently introduced four value packs where different selections of breads can be purchased at a reduced price, supplied in a calico bag.

"The calico bag helps the environment and when it's brought back for a refill, the savings are even greater," she said.

"Our latest introduction is our new range where we have a variety of breads packed with natural whole grains, seeds, fruits and nuts with no added sugar.

There are plans to hold school tours in the near future to encourage budding bakers.

The store donates 20 cents to the Umina Public School Dough Raiser drive for every block loaf sold.

Any unsold bread is donated to the Salvation Army.

Rob Jimenez, February 18