Moldovan family bakery turns tradition into success
In the heart of Sîngerei district, a family-owned bakery has successfully transformed tradition into success over the years.
Established 15 years ago by Ana Iurcu, the business started with humble beginnings, employing just one person. Thanks to hard work and investments in equipment, it has grown and expanded significantly. Today, the bakery offers a wide variety of traditional products, and its success has extended beyond the country’s borders, showcasing its products at exhibitions and fairs in both Moldova and Romania.
At the Sîngerei bakery, traditional treats like "baba neagră" (a traditional pastry), biscuits, and "învârtite" (another type of pastry) are available for purchase. For instance, "baba neagră" has been prepared for 15 years using a special recipe.
“The idea behind baba neagră is that each producer has their own recipe. Even if I’ve read or studied a recipe elsewhere, I always follow my own. I don’t copy from anyone else,” said the entrepreneur, Ana Iurcu.
Nina, her daughter, returned home more than a year ago after working in the UK. She now plays a role in helping to grow her mother’s business.
“Fortunately, our business is part of a niche where we don’t have to seek out customers or convince them. We’re not exposed to many risks, particularly in terms of sales. We want to remain faithful to traditional Moldovan recipes, using only natural ingredients,” explained the business manager, Nina Cojocaru.
Nina attends various master classes to continue developing the business.
“The highest turnover in hiring and firing occurs in bakeries because of the long working hours, constant standing, and the required skills. A woman can succeed in business if she’s determined, motivated, asks questions, and perseveres—she will undoubtedly succeed,” Nina Cojocaru stated.
The bakery currently employs 14 people. The bakery products from Sîngerei have been showcased at exhibitions and fairs in both Moldova and Romania.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
