A Westbrook baker, Shahla Joiner, is set to expand her business, Shahla’s Cakes, into a new commercial kitchen and takeaway after overcoming serious health challenges. The grand opening is scheduled for May 24th, marking a significant milestone in her journey as a small business owner.
Key takeaways
- Shahla Joiner faced life-threatening health issues last year but persevered to grow her business.
- The new premises at Phoenix Business Park is nearly ten times larger than her previous setup.
- The expansion includes a commercial kitchen and a takeaway counter, enhancing customer experience.
- The opening event will feature balloons, DJs, and free brownies for the first ten customers.
Overcoming adversity
Last year, Shahla faced a health crisis that nearly forced her to close her business. Suffering from gallstones and pancreatitis, she spent five weeks in hospital and battled chronic pancreatitis and diabetes. Despite these challenges, she remained committed to her business, with her team stepping up to keep operations running.
Shahla recalls, "I was in hospital for five weeks and in and out of A&E. I nearly gave up the business." However, her determination and the support of her staff, Natalie and Mikki, allowed her to continue engaging with customers, even posting videos from her hospital bed.
Business growth and community support
This year, Shahla’s Cakes has seen a surge in demand, thanks in part to her regular stall at Manston market and viral social media content. Shahla credits the market for revitalising her business, stating, "I cannot praise them enough."
The new commercial kitchen at Phoenix Business Park will feature:
- Stainless steel worktops
- Large ovens
- Ample storage space
- A high-speed dishwasher
Shahla has invested significantly in the new premises, with funds primarily sourced from her market sales, where customers have travelled from as far as London and Lancashire to support her.
New offerings and community engagement
In addition to her renowned cakes and bakes, Shahla plans to introduce savoury items like sausage rolls, as well as milkshakes and coffee sourced from female farmers through Skinny Dip. This initiative aims to address gender imbalances in the coffee supply chain.
Shahla’s family plays an integral role in the business, with her daughters Laila and Lissy helping with design and operations, while her son Leyton occasionally assists at the market stall. This family involvement not only strengthens their bond but also fosters a sense of community around the business.
Grand opening celebration
The grand opening of Shahla’s Cakes will take place on May 24th at 11 am, featuring a festive atmosphere with balloons, DJs, and complimentary brownies for the first ten customers. Shahla expresses her excitement, stating, "It’s just a dream. I was so poorly last year but you only get one life and I just had to go for it."
The new location at 2 Phoenix Business Park, Margate CT9 4HL, promises to be a vibrant hub for cake lovers and a testament to resilience and community support. Shahla’s journey from illness to expansion serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of determination and the importance of local support in small business success.
