SOURDOUGH bakers in Stratford are celebrating after rising to the challenge of lockdown.
David and Danni Pearson launched their business Mor Bakery just days before the first national lockdown last year.
Fortunately their bread specialty, a well-known lockdown staple, helped trade to flow and the couple were able to keep on their new staff.
Former chef David said the one year milestone was more of a ‘relief’ than an achievement.
He added: “We weren’t sure if we’d last a month never mind a year. The constant need for evolution at speed has been tough. As with any couple in business together there are of course a few arguments – the constant government u-turns, Covid stresses, fears and unknown has been a huge test for us both. Living week to week not knowing if you’re going to be forcibly shut down or be able to pay the bills has been exhausting. In contrast, we’re aware how fortunate we are to be able to continue to stay open – we really feel for the majority of industry that hasn’t been able to operate and even closed down at such short notice.”
The couple were forced to find some perspective when a new arrival, named Freddie, came along mid-pandemic.
David added: “The bakery was my first baby and it was extremely difficult to take a step back in terms of paternity leave – but having an actual baby puts everything into perspective. Whilst the day-to-day stresses became less significant there was a reinvigorated drive to make the business a success for Freddie’s sake. “Working 10 to 12 hour days on two hours sleep is also a challenge!”
The family remain cautiously optimistic for the future, with plans for bread-making classes and expansion.
The dad-of-one said: “We always describe it as an adventure and that’s how we’ll continue to see it. We still don’t feel completely stable – I doubt that will change for a year or two.”
