Bakers Delight

The original Bakers Delight on Glenferrie Road in Hawthorn marks the birthplace of what has become one of the world’s most successful bakery franchises. Founded in 1980 by fourth-generation baker Roger Gillespie and his wife Lesley, this shop started with a simple but powerful commitment: baking bread fresh every single day. While the brand has expanded to over 700 locations internationally, the Hawthorn store remains a significant piece of Australian retail history. The Gillespie family’s dedication to traditional techniques, high-quality ingredients, and community engagement established a blueprint for success. Even today, the location maintains the friendly, local atmosphere that defines the brand. Known for its signature loaves, scrolls, and seasonal treats, Bakers Delight has become a household name synonymous with reliability and freshness. The success story of this Hawthorn shop serves as an inspiration for Australian entrepreneurs, demonstrating how a focus on quality and core values can turn a local bakery into a global empire.