WE WENT TO THE NATIONAL BANK WITH BREAD

THEY HELPED US TURN IT INTO GOLD

If you have something to crow about, then crow.” Not the kind of words you’d expect to hear from a bank, but exactly the words that helped Lievito Bakery become the successful award-winning business it is today.

It all started when Kevin Gilbert left school and wanted to become a baker. After a stint working as a hotel chef he decided to start his own business. He ended up starting two.

Kevin and his wife Esther were encouraged to attend one of The National Bank’s finance and budgeting workshops. “It was there that we heard some of our best advice; “Do less, get more.” They learned that business success doesn’t always come from doing more; often it comes from doing less. Taking this tip on board, they sold one business to focus entirely on the other.

Lievito Bakery received all of their attention, and its customer base steadily grew as a result. Kevin never looked back and at the end of 2009 he entered into The National Bakery Competition, winning “Best Gluten Free Bread” and “Third-Best Bread” in the country. Kevin says that none of this would have been possible without the support of The National Bank, and with the recognition gained from the awards, he’s taking on new customers every week.

So what does it take to build a successful business that bakes some of the best bread in New Zealand? Some practical advice, a couple of workshops and the genuine enthusiasm and partnership of The National Bank’s Business Banking team have certainly helped Kevin along the way.

Find out how our innovative Business Banking products can help your business grow.

Call 0800 62 22 02 to be put in touch with a Business Banking Manager near you, or register for a free business workshop now.