Being a Member of the Baking Association of Australia (BAA)

With an engineering background and no formal training as a baker or a chef, with no retail experience, wholesale experience or marketing experience, Perth local Mette, began Mette is Baking in 2013 with a passion and a desire to bring a piece of Nordic tradition to local tables.

“One of the biggest hurdles for me, was there was no roadmap of how to start and build a food business, some 10 years ago,” says Mette, Owner and Founder of Mette is Baking. “I set out and pieced it together, bit by bit, thanks to the help of the Small Business Development Corporation, my local council - the City of Melville and being brave and asking other local food brands who gave me their time and helped.

“That’s why I also found the Baking Association of Australia (BAA). The national body for the baking industry which helps businesses by providing support and education.

“From providing me assistance with accounting and legal advice to networking opportunities and helping me when it was time for Mette is Baking to recruit and hire staff, the benefits of being a BAA member have been abundant.

“I have embraced everything which comes with the BAA membership, which in turn has helped me unlock not only my baking potential, but my potential as a business owner,” says Mette.

Having been a member for a number of years, Mette is also on the board of the Western Australian branch.

“I’d encourage anyone who owns a baking business, big or small, to be part of the Baking Association of Australia,” says Mette.

“For me, the advantages have been endless. The association offers a wealth of information and benefits which can help elevate your baking journey. One of the key advantages of joining the BAA was our ability to network and connect with fellow baking professionals and industry leaders.

“New doors were opened for me - networking events, conferences, workshops and awards. I have exchanged ideas with other members, gained industry insights and most importantly built valuable relationships. It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, these connections provide a real supportive community to fuel your passion,” says Mette.

Apart from networking opportunities the BAA has also supported Mette’s business by offering access to industry expertise and resources to not only enhance Mette’s baking knowledge and skills, but ensure her business has access to training program, seminars and professionals who can guide and advice Mette along the way.

“What’s great is I have access to professional assistance seven days a week to help me with accounting, legal and other industry concerns if and when I need it. They have helped me ensure I run my business to meet compliance with regards to Fair Work and ensure my policies and procedures align to industry standards.

“Plus, not to mention to BAA continues to provide the opportunity for us to nominate our crackers at a number of local and national prestigious awards and recognition programs which celebrate excellence in baking. And, as a recipient of 25 awards in six years - I have been able to showcase my products nationally while raising my professional profile and gaining industry wide recognition,” says Mette.

Membership to the BAA is for passionate bakers and baking enthusiasts in Australia - becoming a member is a recipe for success.

“For me, the joy of baking has become even sweeter,” says Mette, “especially when you are part of a passionate community which shares your love for all things delicious.”

To find out more about the Baking Association of Australia visit their website https://www.baa.asn.au/