In Western Australia’s Pinjarra the community-minded Pinjarra Bakery has customers fiercely loyal to its pies. The family bakery chain also has a core group of steadfast staff members who are just as passionate about the pies, the cakes, the coffee, and the family that’s behind this heritage business.

Shelley is one. “I’ve been here 14 years in May, we’ve got someone who’s been here 16 years and another staff member who has 21 years with Pinjarra Bakery,” she says.

“I am passionate about my job. I love it. The family is amazing to work for. I’ve never seen a boss look after a business like the Pantaleo family does.”

Jodie Pantaleo and her brothers Dan and Paul lead the second-generation family business. They commit to improving business and solving problems, Shelley says.

“They are always learning, improving and innovating, which is amazing,” she says. “There are always resources and help for any concerns across all the departments.”

As in any business, sometimes things can go awry but head office will always take action to fix a problem.

Shelley leads a team of six senior staff, one new team member and four juniors in the flagship store at the tourist stop-off town 82 km out of Perth.  

A strong workplace culture thrives at Pinjarra Bakery

The Pinjarra store opens at 6am and closes at 5pm. Throughout the day the rostered staff serve delicious baked goods with a friendly welcome and a smile.

“In all four Pinjarra Bakery stores, staff get along really well with each other, we have a great workplace culture. We have a flexible approach that suits students, and we are very clear about our rules and regulations. ”

Shelley handles store audits, policies and procedures, so is expert in the details that make the difference at the bakery.

“On job preview days I show potential new staff members through the store and the procedures, and try them out in either the coffee, salad bar or service area so they get a sense of what it’s like to be in a busy, vibrant bakery,” Shelley explains.

“We’re always improving staff service through training. People want to be greeted with a smile, friendly service, and a quick conversation.”

The Pinjarra Bakery’s menu incorporates all the traditional bakery items, and some innovative ones, that keep customers coming back – but the pies are the stars of the show.

A community focus is key for the popular bakery

“We do a lot of marketing so people know the brand, we’re out there. We have wonderful pie innovations that tempt customers to try new products, whether they are locals or drop-in tourists.”

The Pinjarra store caters for customers on the move, with plenty of parking space for 4-wheel drives and caravans, and ample seating so families and friends can enjoy a delicious bite in comfort. 

The bakery chain gets heavily involved in community sponsorship and support through local groups and donations.

“Right now I’m packing pies for the Hawaiian Ride For Youth, a charity event to fundraise for and promote mental health in youngsters,” Shelley says. “It’s a pushbike race, and we supply pies for the participants and give them a big donation too.

“Jodie and Dan are really engaged; they are always open to supporting various causes and encourage staff to find out more about any charities or individuals they are interested in helping,” she says.

The family spirit pervades the business, matching efficiency with a heartwarming welcome that is the icing on the cake – or the sauce on the pie.

“We have a top notch product at Pinjarra Bakery. I have to believe in it to sell it, and I’ve been singing its praises for 14 years now!” Shelley says.