Case Study: Working toward the perfect work life balance - David, Franchisee

By Sophia Rutty

When David and his wife Sarah wanted to own their own bakery they knew that it would be a lot of hard work. However, running the business together has helped strengthen their relationship and is helping them achieve a work/life balance that allows them to spend valuable time with their two-year-old daughter Poppy.

Becoming part of the network and community

David Winter first started his baking apprenticeship in his home town of Yarrawonga before completing his training at Bakers Delight Stud Park in 2016. It was at this time David first heard of the Manage To Own program which got him thinking, he had the opportunity to become a business owner, not just a baker.

When David and his wife Sarah begun exploring the idea of owning their own business, Bakers Delight Hawksburn was an attractive option, given David’s experience with the brand, products and procedures. However, even though David was familiar with the brand, he had never owned his own business and had to lean on Bakers Delight to provide him with all the training necessary to run a successful business.

“The recruitment process was very supportive, from the very first phone call all the way to the end. I felt supported and well informed throughout the process. My trainer was always there to answer my questions and assist me when needed. Although you can’t completely know what to expect until you take over the business, I felt prepared”, said David.

David admits that running a business is a 24/7 commitment and has found much-needed support from the Bakers Delight network of Franchisees. Being part of such a wide network has allowed David to create strong relationships with like-minded business owners who can provide him with quality advice given there familiarity with the brand.

Since starting their business, David and Sarah have not only become an integral part of the Bakers Delight network but also their local community. A strong part of the Bakers Delight ethos, community involvement with local schools, kindergartens and sporting clubs is one of David’s favourite things about being a Bakers Delight Franchisee.

“The appreciation, support and loyalty you get back from the community is amazing and just being in a position to provide that support makes all the hard work worth it,” said David.