BreadHive

Don't feel too bad if you've never heard of BreadHive Worker Cooperative Bakery as they've only been around since April of this year. It does mean you've missed their cover story in Buffalo Spree magazine, their profiles in The Buffalo News and Block Club, as well as blog entries on Buffalo Rising and Buffalo Eats, though. OK, so maybe you should feel bad—I know I did after only discovering the collective last month. Thankfully BuffaloVibe is here to ensure you're given another chance to get to know the entrepreneurial women behind the bakery and the delicious bread they create.

 

I can say first hand that their bread is fantastic because worker/co-owner Victoria Kuper was gracious enough to bring a loaf of their signature West Side Sourdough for our interview. It was a perfect introduction to their ever-expanding catalog of offerings available wholesale, via subscription, and retail at numerous venues around Western New York. The selection spans rye, multigrain, a scrumptious looking cinnamon raisin swirl, assorted bagels, and even granola with an expanded menu in the works as new flavors and products are tested behind the scenes.

 

Kuper joined me with Emily Stewart and Allison Ewing (who you'll read below popped in later on) at Sweet_ness 7 Cafe for an in-depth talk about BreadHive's origins, its phenomenal start, and dreams for the future. All three are infectiously excited about the work they're doing and extremely knowledgeable about the craft and business itself. It was a delight to see their dedication and how much fun they're having considering each dove headfirst into the enterprise by quitting jobs and raising funds. They took an educated gamble and have deservedly found exponential success.

 

Take a few minutes to read what it takes to build a business from the ground up as told directly by this trio of hardworking artisans who show no signs of slowing down. With a new granola flavor about to roll out (details below); an in-demand take-out window located at their 123 Baynes Avenue home (opening September 1st from 10am-2pm); partnerships with local tastemakers; and menu inclusions at the likes of newly opened Buffalo Proper (located where Laughlins used to reside), BreadHive is primed to become a household Buffalo name if it is not already.