There’s something special about stepping into a bakery where the owner’s passion is baked into every loaf — and that’s exactly what customers can expect at Bakers Delight Pt Chevalier, now proudly owned by Dinuka.
For Dinuka, joining the Bakers Delight family wasn’t just a business decision — it was the natural next step in a journey that began years ago. At just 16, he started working as a baker at St Heliers Bakers Delight. What began as a part-time job quickly turned into a lifelong passion.
“I genuinely fell in love with the craft of baking and the culture of Bakers Delight,” Dinuka says. “Being part of a team that values quality, consistency, and community gave me a real sense of purpose.” That early experience planted the seed for a long-term dream: one day becoming a franchisee himself.
Before taking the leap into ownership, Dinuka built a well-rounded career. He completed studies in Commerce and Finance, equipping himself with strong business and financial skills, while continuing to grow within the bakery world as a bakery manager. He later moved into finance roles, sharpening his analytical and strategic thinking. Together, these experiences gave him the ideal blend of hands-on bakery knowledge and commercial expertise.
When it came time to choose a franchise, the decision was clear. Bakers Delight stood out for its strong values, trusted reputation, and unwavering commitment to freshly baked bread. “I already knew the systems, the training, and the support were second to none,” he explains. “That foundation gives franchisees confidence and sets you up for long-term success.”
The most exciting part of this new chapter has been the sense of partnership Dinuka has felt from day one. From planning production and maintaining quality standards to refurbishing the store with a next-generation look, he’s relished the opportunity to create a fresh, welcoming space for the Pt Chevalier community.
Looking ahead, Dinuka is focused on building more than just a successful bakery. His goal is to develop a happy, motivated team, deliver great products every day, and become a valued part of the local neighbourhood — all while continuing to grow within the Bakers Delight network.
And if you’re wondering his must-try product? It’s the Sticky Cinnamon Scroll. “It’s unbeatable,” he laughs. “Especially when it’s warm and the cream cheese icing melts on top — it’s a treat I never get tired of.”
For anyone considering becoming a Bakers Delight franchisee, Dinuka’s advice is simple: understand the brand, be hands-on, and trust the support systems in place. “With passion, consistency, and commitment, it’s an incredibly rewarding journey.”
One final fun fact the community might enjoy: even after all these years, Dinuka still finds pure happiness in baking bread. “That smell when it comes out of the oven,” he says, “it still makes my day and puts a smile on my face.”