The couple who won their own shop in a competition say it ‘still doesn’t feel real’ as they prepare to open.
Charlotte Blundred and Matt Roberts won a rent-free unit at Longton Exchange in the Stoke-on-Trent shopping complex’s Win a Shop Competition.
They have spent the last few weeks kitting it out to become a bright and welcoming bakery stocking sweet treats and savoury delights such as brownies, pastries and pies.
Crumbs Family Bakery will celebrate its opening in style with a grand launch party on Wednesday, 20 August where customers can pick up treats, enjoy some freebies and surprises and take part in games and competitions to win even more delights.
The couple, who live in Longton, had been looking for a business base after baking goods at home and selling at local markets and pop-up events.
Charlotte told Daily Focus: “It still doesn’t feel real. We’d been looking for somewhere for a few months before the competition came along.
“It’s what we always wanted it to be – nice and open so people can see the baking going on.”
Matt added: “It feels unreal to be opening our own bakery. We have put a lot of hard work into it, and we’re really excited now the time has come to open.”
Seventy entries were received in the competition, which also ran in 2023.
The initiative aims to support local entrepreneurs and bring new life to Longton’s high street.
Chris Ward, Centre Manager at Longton Exchange, said: “We had some really good businesses coming forward for the Win a Shop competition, but Charlotte’s passion really came through in her submission and it was a unanimous decision by judges to pick her business.
“I’m sure it will do really well.”
The bakery, which will run rent-free for the first 12 months, can be found in Unit 6 of the Bennett Precinct, next to So Very Dog, the winner of the first Win a Shop competition.
The launch event takes place between 10am and 4pm.
Going forward, the bakery will be open Wednesday to Sunday each week and there are plans to introduce homemade bread and afternoon teas.
