A family-owned bakery, Crafty Cakes, has opened its third location in Nausori, further extending its range of pastries and cakes to customers in the Tailevu, Naitasiri, Rewa, and surrounding areas. Founded by Alka Ranjani and Suneet Prakash, Crafty Cakes has seen substantial growth since starting as a small online home-based venture, where the couple initially sold their baked goods over a two-year period.
The couple has invested a total of $150,000 into their three locations, which provide employment for six individuals, with each shop staffed by two employees. The opening of the latest shop comes as a response to growing demand for their unique cake offerings, which include traditional flavors like chocolate and lemon, alongside healthier alternatives such as gluten and sugar-free options.
Mr. Prakash shared that their journey began as a hobby where Alka’s baking skills shone and he focused on cake decoration. After the positive reception from their initial online sales, they decided to open their first outlet in Nadera, followed by a second in Nabua, and now the latest in Hemron Plaza, Nausori. Their plans for the future include expanding their product line with new flavors and establishing additional locations to make their cakes more accessible to a wider audience.
The couple caters to a variety of occasions, including birthdays, weddings, and engagements, reflecting the growing trend of local entrepreneurs contributing to community festivities. Similar to other aspiring bakers in the region, like Adi Nanise Rokovatu, who runs a successful cake business in Delaikuku, Crafty Cakes exemplifies the determination and creativity present in the culinary industry.
Both businesses showcase the resilience of local entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of community support and the potential for growth in local economies. As the baking scene flourishes in Fiji, there’s an encouraging outlook for entrepreneurs aiming to enhance their offerings and serve their communities better.
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