Rishi Sunak has welcomed the opening of a new artisan bakery in Stokesley.
The MP met founders David McAnaney and Emily Grocott ahead of the opening of Koselig Bakeri’s latest branch in the market town. The bakery is run by David and Emily alongside David’s partner and Emily’s sister, Megan.
Koselig – named after a Norwegian-inspired concept loosely translating to “cosy” – was established during the COVID-19 pandemic after the trio left careers in the public sector to pursue their passion for artisan baking and community-focused hospitality.
What began as a new venture during uncertain times has since grown into a successful independent business, with its first store in Guisborough, a second in Saltburn-by-the-Sea and now a third location in Stokesley.
Baked goods are prepared each day at the company’s central bakery in Guisborough before being delivered to the stores.
Alongside artisan breads and pastries, the business has built a strong community following through initiatives such as the “PinDropClub”, a silent book club which attracts more than 60 people each week to gather for shared evenings of reading.
During his visit, Mr Sunak met staff, heard about the journey from start-up to multi-site business and discussed the challenges and opportunities facing independent high street retailers.
He said: “It was fantastic to visit Koselig ahead of its opening in Stokesley and to meet the team behind such an inspiring local success story. Starting a business during the pandemic took courage and growing it into three locations is a remarkable achievement.
“Independent businesses like this bring energy and character to our high streets, create local jobs and strengthen community life.”
Co-founder David McAnaney said the opening weekend had been a proud moment for the team.
“Seeing the bakery full and meeting so many people who value local produce and community perfectly summed up what Koselig is about,” he said. “We’re proud to be growing in North Yorkshire and building neighbourhood bakeries people genuinely want to return to.”
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