Case studies - business support
Company: Peak Chocolates
Owner: Dino Fienarola
Location: Stockwell
Born in Switzerland, Dino Fienarola has always dreamed of working for a fine pastry and confectionery production operation. Throughout his life he has sought the skills to make this dream a reality, by working in numerous confectioners across Switzerland, and as an assistant confectioner in the Sydney Hilton Hotel in Australia. Through these experiences, Dino gained a vast amount of knowledge of the catering industry, including cooking á la carte menus and for large banquets.
In 2006 Dino decided to combine his catering and entrepreneurial skills to start up his own company in Switzerland. Peak Chocolates provides hand made, high quality confectionery, with various product lines being created for changing seasons and holidays.
Dino approached GLE oneLondon in 2007 as he wanted advice on how to break into the UK market. Following a meeting with GLE oneLondon business adviser, Rodolfo Basilio, market research was carried out by Dino to discover the demand for confectionary and consequently his business. From this it was discovered that the UK is the fourth biggest market consumer in the world.
Recognising a niche for Dino, Rodolfo Basilio introduced him to Maria Mendes, a catering entrepreneur situated in Stockwell. Following a specific analysis and having taken into consideration direct and indirect costs, Dino is now able to use Maria’s Kitchen to prepare his confectionary before selling and distributing throughout London.
Through his market research, Dino has targeted his primary customer base, and to increase sales aims to create an online shop to provide private customers with a unique shopping experience.
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