Sometimes new beginnings lead to more than you would expect. When Roy Kwon first started working for Bakers Delight Warrnambool in 2011, never did he think a decade later he would own his own bakery. Originally from South Korea, Roy fell in love with Australia and his now wife Stella, while backpacking. Armed with his desire to become a baker and seek permanent residency, Roy completed his Certificate III in Retail Baking.  

“Coming to Australia opened my eyes to so many possibilities. I was so grateful when Darren and Paula, the franchisees at Warrnambool, decided to not only employ me, but sponsor me. I learnt so much and it really helped me hone my craft as a baker.”

Over the next few years Roy worked hard, seeing him win a coveted Gillespie Award. This accolade is only awarded to outstanding employees as part of Bakers Delight’s internal reward and recognition program. Despite excelling, Roy felt the call of the city and moved to Melbourne for a business opportunity.  

“Leaving Bakers Delight Warrnambool was really difficult. I became very close to Darren and Paula – they were like family. I even named my son after Darren!”

Over the next few years Roy tried his hand at a few different roles, but always wanted to ‘be his own boss’. When the pandemic hit, the bakery industry was thriving, which got Roy thinking. Was now his time to venture back to baking and finally achieve his dream of owning a bakery? The answer was yes.

“My desire to pursue baking and own my own bakery never left me. I started looking for bakeries I could purchase, leading me to Bakers Delight Wantirna. The franchisee at the time, Daniel, was selling and happy to help me brush up on my baking skills. It was the perfect opportunity for me to transition into a franchisee.”

Before Roy could take the reins of Wantirna, he needed to be prepared. In conjunction with priceless training from Daniel, he undertook the ‘Manage to Own’ (MTO) program. This program is run by Bakers Delight and is designed to equip future franchisees with the necessary operational and business skills required to run a successful bakery.

“This program really helped me in preparing to become a franchisee. There is so much involved in running a bakery – you must be very organised. It felt overwhelming at times, but the support from Bakers Delight was first class – I would highly recommend the program!”

After successfully completing the MTO program, Roy took ownership of Bakers Delight Wantirna in December 2021. With Daniel’s support, Roy took the bakery from strength to strength, increasing sales from the previous year.  

“I should have done it sooner – it’s amazing how you end up on the path you need to be! One of my favourite things about being a franchisee is that most people in the community know you. Whenever I talk about baking, everyone knows the brand and they give me such positive feedback! This makes me feel really proud and accomplished.”

Roy also loves the lifestyle perks that come with being a franchisee.

“The hours may be early, but it really works for me. I live near to the bakery to make sure I am close to the action, as well as my family. There is nothing better than achieving so much in the morning and coming home to see my kids off before school!”

Roy leaves his final thoughts on the future and those that may be considering bakery ownership.  

“I am excited for the future. I am planning to refurbish the bakery to give it a new look and feel which should delight customers. For anyone thinking of becoming a franchisee, I say don’t be afraid, go after your dreams – be your own boss! The support of Bakers Delight is unbelievable and that makes me feel that anything is achievable.”

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