A new 24-hour Hot Bread Kitchen outlet has officially opened its doors in Pacific Harbour, creating 23 new jobs and enhancing economic opportunities in the Serua province. This significant opening represents a continuing phase of growth for the local bakery chain, which has made employment generation and inclusive career pathways its main focus.
Timoci Boseiwaqa, Chairman of the Serua Provincial Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, noting that it serves a diverse range of customers and reflects the increasing investment 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 stated.
Managing Director Vannessa Charters emphasized that the essence of Hot Bread Kitchen goes beyond just baked goods; it lies in its commitment to its people. Charters mentioned that the company’s model is designed to provide careers, training, and essential skills to those who may not have excelled in traditional educational paths. “We enable people to build careers and achieve financial independence, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty,” she added.
The focus on development and long-term financial stability elevates the bakery’s role from merely a food outlet to a crucial player in social mobility. Div Damodar, Chief Executive Officer of Damodar Group of Companies, acknowledged that the brand’s consistent growth is rooted in its dedication to the people of Fiji. He expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Yatu Lau Company in reviving the Pacific Harbour area.
The new outlet not only boosts business activity at the Arts Village but also provides essential round-the-clock service to the tourism and residential communities. This development brings 23 new employment opportunities in a region where job security is crucial for household incomes.
As businesses expand into peri-urban and tourism-driven regions, initiatives like this raise important questions about sustainable job growth, skills training, and the role of the private sector in fostering inclusive economic development. Ultimately, the opening of the Hot Bread Kitchen in Pacific Harbour is a positive stride toward enhancing community welfare and economic resilience.