​Episode 150: The Birds Bakery Story with Jamie Bird

In the 150th episode of the Ceres Podcast, Jamie Bird of Birds Bakery steps into the spotlight for his first appearance, bringing stories from a bakery that's touched the hearts of many in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Staffordshire. Stelios starts the conversation with vivid recollections shared by locals, including a heartfelt story from Kelly Barnes, who grew up in Burton on Trent, where Birds Bakery was a staple of her childhood.

As Jamie narrates Birds Bakery's humble beginnings, he takes us through a century-long journey from its founding to its current status with over 60 outlets. He describes how the bakery has woven itself into the fabric of its communities, not just physically with its stores but emotionally through generations of family memories.

Family runs deep at Birds, not only in the literal sense, with multiple generations working within its ranks, but also metaphorically, as Jamie discusses the blend of tradition and modernity that defines their business operations. This is a bakery that, while expanding, has kept its heart in the right place, holding tightly to the local charm that has always been its hallmark.

Discussing operational hurdles, such as rising costs and regulatory issues like VAT on different types of food, Jamie gives insights into how the bakery navigates these complexities with strategic finesse, keeping their operations smooth and customer-friendly.

In the face of modern challenges, including the relentless competition from giant supermarket chains, Jamie outlines the strategic measures Birds has adopted. From emphasising quality and customer loyalty to leveraging digital platforms like online sales and loyalty apps, Birds Bakery is adapting without losing its essence. Jamie talks about balancing innovation with tradition in product development, ensuring that every new pastry or bread reflects the bakery's commitment to freshness and quality.

Looking to the future, Jamie shares his excitement and concerns. He's driven by the potential for growth, from expanding the product range to rethinking store layouts and extending trading hours to suit changing consumer patterns. Yet, he is candid about the pressures of rising energy costs and labour shortages, which are common challenges in today's business landscape.

Jamie's reflections add a final touch to the story, revealing his journey from commercial real estate in London to the roots of his family's bakery in Derby. This transition marks not just a career change but a return to a life filled with the scent of bread and the warmth of community - a testament to the enduring allure of a family business.

The episode is a rich tapestry of past, present, and future, portraying Birds Bakery as more than just a place to buy bread. It's a community cornerstone that continues to bake memories into each loaf, promising freshness and quality as it plans for many more years of service.