And probably there will be more new beginnings to come for our cookie company. We’re feeling a little philosophical this week as we prepare to meet with the health inspector on our plans for the new space.
New Beginnings
“Every new beginning comes from other beginning’s end” This quote from Seneca, Roman philosopher, comes back to us in the song from Semisonic and reminds us that as one thing ends, another begins.
We’ve done this a few times now. Our new location will be the fourth kitchen so far. As we’ve grown, so have our requirements for space and equipment. Each time is a new beginning.
Triple Bottom Line
Every time we bring together the resources for a new space, we have the chance to do things a little better and to think about our business and its purpose. It’s a time to consider what our customers have said, have asked for, have contributed to the business.
We get to think back on what our employees have suggested, how we have worked with them, how the work has been accomplished. It’s a time to re-think processes and procedures, evaluate what worked and what didn’t, refine how we do things; it’s a time to improve, to innovate, to impress.
We think always about the Triple Bottom Line – people, planet, profit. We want people to love our product; we want to be good corporate citizens, and to make sure that our company provides a living for those who are part of it, whether as owners or employees.
And, we can add a fourth “P” as well – product. We want to make the best possible product, using the best possible ingredients and to find joy in creating our product. Additionally, we want this product to bring joy into the lives of those who eat it, share it and gift it. Lastly, it must bring profits that we can use to reinvest in our business and to invest in the people who bring the product to you.
Building
Lorraine is approaching retirement, at least partial retirement, and wants to see the family legacy of baking continue. Julia lives every day with a disability that keeps her from holding a conventional job and needs an income to rely on – the social safety net doesn’t provide very much for people with disabilities, so we are weaving that net with Sable Shortbread. The neurodiverse of this world often don’t appear to have a disability and that can make it trickier for them to access supports.
Because we can create a work environment that suits Julia, she can work and be productive.
While we are continuing a family legacy, we are connected to both the past and the future through our bakery. Since we own the business, we are building equity. So, hopefully, the business will continue to thrive and grow and provide new opportunities for the next generation to realize their dreams.
Our cookies are more than shortbread; they have a purpose. This new beginning is another step forward with this purpose. Thanks for joining us. We look forward to our opening day in Windsor and to sharing a bite of joy with you!
