Dooher’s in Campbellford named the Sweetest Bakery in Canada

CAMPBELLFORD — Dooher’s Bakery has been voted the Sweetest Bakery in Canada.

The shop, at 61 Bridge St. E. in Campbellford, about 55 kilometres east of Peterborough, received the most votes, online and by mail, to win the contest sponsored by Dawn Food Products, Inc., based in Michigan.

Winning the competition was “incredible ... such a wild feeling,” owner Cory Dooher said.

Voting began in April with a deadline of July 31 for votes sent online. Mailed votes were accepted until Friday.

The grand prize is worth $10,000 and includes a plaque, advertising and public relations support, and a celebration party for staff and customers.

Dooher said her “very surreal” victory made her think to when her grandfather Harry Dooher started the bakery in 1949.

“I wish he was here with me because I know he would be so proud,” she said.

“I couldn’t have done it on my own. I have an amazing staff that worked their butts off.”

Dooher also expressed gratitude for the support she received “from everybody who took the time to vote” and the people who are her customers.

The business wouldn’t be successful without them, she said.

“Thank you to everyone. It’s pretty touching,” Dooher said

After the win was confirmed, Dooher went out for dinner Friday night with her parents, Peter and Christine Dooher, and her three children, Jeremy Dooher, Hannah Finch and Spencer Finch, to celebrate the win.

Joining them was Alannah Haig, who handles marketing and advertising. She played “a huge part” in securing the title of sweetest bakery by urging people to vote, Dooher said.

The publicity is certain to draw even more customers to what is already a busy business.

“We’re ready to take it on, absolutely,” Dooher said. “We’ve got a big name behind us now. If it means having to hire more staff, then that’s the step I’m going to have to take.”