There's a growing movement here in America to support small businesses. People are beginning to see the true value in it, even if they have to pay more. Unfortunately, with the economy the way it is now a lot of peoples' budgets are stretched to the limit and I'm sure this has had an impact on these family-owned businesses. It's getting more difficult to launch a business, it was even tough when we ran our tea business (2008-2013) but it was enjoyable.
I would think a farmers market stand or something like that would be a good way to get started with baked goods...niche markets. You definitely have a passion and talent for it.
Thank you, Phil! I, unfortunately, never have resumed my baking but plan on doing so soon! I want to try sourdough croissants. Have you ever experimented with those?
I had so many markets contact me to sell my bread at local markets. But the same problem is evident there: the stalls cost about R1000 (local currency) per day and I can sell a bread for about R60 (going rate for them). That means I need to sell about 20 breads to just break even. South Africa doesn’t have such a big market for breads, so the markets that I have visited it is always sad to see the bread stalls have an abundance of bread left over. I saw one guy have about 30 breads left on his stand at closing time.
Problem is that most people here buy government subsidised breads, which sell around R15 a loaf (compared to sourdough of R50-60).
Anyway, I have actually tried sourdough croissants! And wow, it was not easy. I still need to work on the recipe, but sourdough and sugar and fat (enriched doughs) is a struggle. Will keep you posted!
That sounds like it would be a real challenge. You'd almost need to sell it off a truck or start a subscription service. We have one here called Brake Bread that does all their deliveries on cargo bikes. Pretty cool concept.
I can't even imagine how difficult the sourdough croissants are. We had one local baker here who mastered it during the pandemic but he's no longer doing it. OMG they were absolutely delicious. I'll be curious to hear how it's going for you!
I have thought about doing that as well! Putting paper pamphlets in people's post telling them about my bread baking, and then delivering on bike as this will be cheaper and more sustainable, plus you get to know your customers more intimately. Definitely something that I will still look into.
For sure, and I am sad along with you that they stopped! I can only imagine. Okay, you gave me some inspiration to delve into baking enriched sourdough! Keep an eye on this space.