A new 24-hour Hot Bread Kitchen outlet has officially launched in Pacific Harbour, bringing with it 23 new job opportunities and bolstering economic growth in the Serua province. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the local bakery chain, which has prioritized employment creation and inclusive career pathways.
Timoci Boseiwaqa, the Chairman of the Serua Provincial Council, expressed his excitement about the new addition to the area, highlighting that it caters to a wide spectrum of customers and signifies growing investments in the region. “The products they sell cater to everyone, and they’re expanding their services to the rest of Fiji. This is a good development for our province,” he remarked.
Managing Director Vannessa Charters underscored that the Hot Bread Kitchen’s mission transcends merely providing baked goods. The company’s approach is centered on fostering careers, training, and essential skills for individuals who may not thrive within conventional educational frameworks. Charters stated, “We enable people to build careers and achieve financial independence, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty.”
The bakery’s commitment to fostering development and long-term financial prosperity positions it as a vital contributor to social mobility within the community. Div Damodar, Chief Executive Officer of Damodar Group of Companies, acknowledged that the brand’s ongoing growth stems from its dedication to the people of Fiji. He expressed appreciation for the partnership with the Yatu Lau Company in revitalizing the Pacific Harbour area.
The new outlet is expected to invigorate business at the Arts Village while providing essential services around the clock to both the tourism sector and local residents. This initiative adds vital employment opportunities in a region where job security is particularly important for household incomes.
As businesses continue to expand in peri-urban and tourism-centric areas, developments like this pose critical considerations for sustainable job creation, skills training, and the private sector’s role in promoting inclusive economic growth. The inauguration of the Hot Bread Kitchen in Pacific Harbour is a promising step toward enhancing community well-being and economic resilience, paving the way for a brighter future for the region.