Ian Akers and David Wright, The Cake Shop

Back in 1946 David Wright’s grandparents moved to Suffolk from Northumberland with the aim of starting a bakery.

More than 70 years later, The Cake Shop on Woodbridge’s Thoroughfare is a bustling, delicious-smelling and multi-award-winning shop which people flock to from across Suffolk.

“My father Peter was instrumental in taking the business forward with my mother Christine in the 1970's and 80's,” said David. “And I was very proud to take over in 2012 and hope I can emulate their success.

“Our goals for 2019 are going to be centred on people. The people who work for us and the people we serve.

“I think it's easy to get distracted by numbers in business but when you boil it down the success of a business is defined by how well one person can help another.”

The family aspect of the business – which has included methods, recipes and advice handed down through three generations – is what David believes sets them apart from the competition.

It has also led to the business winning several national awards.

General manager Ian Akers said: “I have grown up with The Cake Shop as part of my town for all of my life and I feel proud to be working for such a great family run business.

“What defines a successful business is its ability to grow and adapt to the ever-changing market and we do this while sticking firmly to our roots.”

Ian’s favourite loaf is his distinctive Suffolk Trencher which boasts 23 ingredients.

David, meanwhile, favours a simple slice of the white sourdough toast – made from just three ingredients – covered in butter and marmite.

So why do the pair think The Cake Shop deserves the title of Producer of the Year?

“Simple,” says David. “I think we deserve to win because we really care about what we do, who we do it with and who we do it for.”