Highlights
- 20% increase in business turnover during the mentoring programme.
- Creation of a detailed Bakes by Gina Business Growth Plan, including new pricing strategies and brand development.
- Increased confidence in securing large catering contracts and expanding the team.
- Secured a £10,000 grant for further investment.
- Commitment to building a purpose-built production unit.
Bakes by Gina was founded by Gina Goulding in West Cumbria. She launched her business to bring her passion for baking to the local community, offering bespoke catering services and expanding quickly in her early years. Gina realised the need for external support to scale up her operations effectively, which led her to apply for business mentoring through the Cumbria Growth Hub in early 2023.
The success of Bakes by Gina includes doubling her turnover during the mentoring programme, expanding into a new production unit, and launching a coffee shop. By the end of 2025, Gina plans to employ up to 12 staff members and achieve SALSA accreditation, allowing her to supply new customers.
Coaching Performance
Paul, along with his team at Scale-Ability, including Andrea Burns from Catapult Solutions, worked with Gina to clarify her growth goals. They conducted cognitive thinking style assessments to help Gina gain self-awareness and develop a personalised action plan. Andrea Burns’ feedback highlighted Gina’s strengths in social empathy and confidence while identifying areas for improvement, such as short-term planning and delegation.
Coaching Results
Through a series of group workshops and one-to-one mentoring sessions, Gina gained confidence in her business decisions and improved her strategic growth planning. She secured new catering contracts, invested in her first employee, and developed a detailed business plan for long-term success.
Paul’s collaborative mentoring approach allowed Gina to explore ideas, overcome business challenges, and develop confidence in making quick decisions. As a result, Bakes by Gina experienced substantial growth, with new contracts and business opportunities pouring in.