From hobby to thriving bakery: How one couple built their bread business from scratch
From hobby to thriving bakery: How one couple built their bread business from scratch
A couple from Grafrath has transformed their love for baking into a successful small business. Stefan Lamm and Ulrike Durner now supply handmade bread to over 120 regular customers, all from a wood-fired oven on their own property. Their journey began with encouragement from an old mentor and a commitment to quality.
The idea took shape after Herr Müller, a teacher and mentor, urged the pair to pursue their passion professionally. Though Lamm had trained as a banker, he studied independently to earn a waiver for the master baker’s certification. This allowed them to legally sell their creations.
Their bakery operates differently from most. Customers must pre-order to avoid waste, and demand keeps growing—five to six new buyers sign up each week. The couple focuses on premium ingredients, sourcing grain from regenerative farms. Their menu includes specialities like Loretti double rolls, whole-grain spelt loaves, and Sylt bread. Production started in September, with the wood-fired oven house becoming the heart of their operation. The couple handles every step themselves, from mixing dough to packaging the final loaves. Their hands-on approach ensures each product meets their high standards.
The business now serves a loyal base of 120 regulars, with numbers steadily climbing. By sticking to pre-orders and sustainable sourcing, Lamm and Durner have built a model that prioritises quality over quantity. Their story shows how dedication—and a little encouragement—can turn a hobby into a thriving enterprise.
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