‘Taste Life Baker and Butcher Shop’ rising above challenge to serve Tanna

June 9, 2025 9:56 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Diana Boar.

Tanna First’s industrial bakery and butcher shop, known as ‘Taste Life Baker and Butcher Shop’, which opened its doors in 2022, has seen improvements in its business despite facing some challenges.

The owner of the company, Glenten Pata, mentions that the business employs a delivery driver who operates around Lenakel and in areas outside the town.

“We are unable to reach the northern part of Tanna due to poor road conditions. Our deliveries are limited to communities along the road constructed by our government,” Pata stated.

“We were only able to utilize four-wheel drive transport once a week to deliver bread to communities that are inaccessible to inadequate road conditions.”

“The company may encounter obstacles as we develop our business; however, we consistently discover a path to progress in our service delivery daily”

One of the challenges faced is the rising electricity bills, which has compelled the business to purchase a portable generator that is utilized 2 to 3 times a week to assist with electricity usage in the shop.

Currently, the company has significantly increased its number of chest freezers with glass doors compared to previous years, which aids in the storage of meats.

The workforce has expanded from 16 employees to approximately 20 staff members.

“Our primary goal is to enhance our bakery to match the standards of bakeries in Vila. I am considering hiring a baker to come to Tanna and train our staff,” Pata expressed.

“The community’s response after delivering bread is always gratifying, as the people of Tanna have a deep appreciation for the taste of our bread. This motivates the company to expand and consider growing the business to other regions of the island as well.”