Growth plan delivers slice of success for Bury cakemaker Zara Neild

The entrepreneur behind Zara Cakes has tripled her profits and set her sights on expanding her business after receiving support from Business Growth Hub.

Zara Neild, who founded the Bury-based cake business six years ago, has seen her profits leap by around 200% since 2013 and now plans to open a second branch in Manchester.

Further, Zara intends to expand her existing shop on Bury Old Road in Prestwich.

After starting the business at home while on maternity leave, Zara got in touch with Business Growth Hub to put together a strategic growth plan.

Tracy Eyres, an advisor with the Hub, recommended that Zara shift her focus away from the second store and concentrate instead on growing the shop in Bury, expanding its services to include cupcake workshops for local schools.

Since its launch, Zara Cakes has worked with a number of large regional, national and international businesses, including Manchester radio station Key 103, the Trafford Centre and Virgin.

Zara commented: “Zara Cakes was born out of my passion for baking and designing cakes, but without a business background I realised that I needed support to achieve sustainable growth.

“The support I received from Business Growth Hub has ensured Zara Cakes is now in a strong position for the future with lots of exciting plans in the pipeline.”

Commenting on the growth, Hub advisor Tracy said Zara Cakes is an “excellent example” of a firm that can flourish in a short space of time with some strategic guidance and direction.

She continued: “Zara is a talented individual and Business Growth Hub is delighted to have contributed to helping her reap the rewards of her hard work.

“We look forward to continuing our excellent relationship with the business as Zara Cakes continues to grow.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →