Patisserie expands with help of much needed dough
Argyll and Bute Business Gateway helps firm to next level
Business Gateway Argyll and Bute has helped a patisserie business access vital funding for essential machinery, which has taken the business to the next level and set it up for future growth.
Based in Helensburgh, The Artist Patisserie goes above and beyond to craft bakes of exceptional quality for all occasions and events.
Husband-and-wife team Iulian and Gina Militaru have always dreamt of owning a patisserie and, following years of experience as pastry chefs for prestigious establishments such as Cameron House Hotel and Mackintosh Tea Rooms, that dream has come true.
Together with their daughter, Madalina, they realised this ambition in 2020 and used savings to buy a small shop outright. The patisserie combines modern and classical techniques, with the use of high-end ingredients, latest trends and technology. As well as cakes for special occasions, the cake counter offers a selection of smaller cakes and the business also supplies hospitality establishments in the area.
After purchasing the shop, Madalina first approached Business Gateway for help to navigate through the planning process to change the official use of the building.
Over the past two years, the family has accessed a range of Business Gateway’s start-up support services.
This included completing a Planning to Start review, regular one-to-one guidance from their business adviser and advice on company regulations, as well as attending webinars on websites, book-keeping and finance.
As the business developed, Madalina, Iulian and Gina also benefited from growth support through the Local Growth Accelerator Programme.
This enabled the purchase of specialist chocolatier equipment, consisting of a 3D printer, a tempering machine, a planetary mixer, an electric turntable and a chocolate dispenser. This equipment has delivered efficiencies for the business, as it helps them produce more refined products at a faster rate.
Encouraged by the success of their initial shop, Madalina, Iulian and Gina now intend to expand into a production kitchen which will allow them to increase the number of wholesale orders they can fulfil.
The family are also looking to establish a South Glasgow café and patisserie.
Madalina Militaru, The Artist Patisserie, said: ‘Business Gateway has been an invaluable resource over these past two years.
‘None of us had any experience when it came to the planning process, but thanks to Business Gateway we were able to get up to speed quickly and are also growing quickly. Business Gateway has helped bring my parents’ dream into fruition and we are incredibly thankful for the funding advice and outstanding support from our adviser.’ Jen Smith, Business Gateway, said: ‘Our local Business Gateway advisers can offer support and signpost routes to funding for both new and growing businesses.
‘It’s wonderful to see how the Militaru family has used our support to help establish the business and expand with confidence. ‘I’m certain the business can go from strength to strength.’