Young and dynamic, Jennifer and Thomas opened their Copaline bakery-pastry shop in early April 2016 in Trélissac (24).
Discover the portrait of Jennifer and Thomas Valstar, based in Trélissac (24).
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Jennifer Valstar and I'm married to Thomas Valstar, who is the son of the former managers of the bakery we took over. I have a DUT in Biological Engineering and a degree in Commerce and Food Safety. Thomas has a CAP and a BEP in baking.
We took over the bakery on 01/04/2016, and it is now a Copaline artisan bakery-pastry shop, located in Trélissac in the Dordogne: BOULANGERIE 4'PAINS - 113 BOULEVARD KENNEDY - 24750 TRELISSAC - Tel. 05 53 03 77 72
Where do you stand today?
We're gradually modernizing the bakery to bring it up to date. We've redone the facade and terrace, and fitted out the premises with new indoor and outdoor furniture.
Why did you choose to work with GMP on your project?
We've known about Grands Moulins de Paris for a long time, as Thomas's parents (the former managers) already worked with them.
We chose to work with GMP for our first installation because they've always been there for us. They advised us, supported us and helped us financially to bring our project to fruition.
We also enjoy working with their flours to make our products, and have always been satisfied with the raw materials.
How did GMP contribute to your project?
Our Transactions and Financing Advisor put together the financing plan and forecast for presentation to the bank. He prepared the bank file and helped us present it at our meetings with the bankers.
Are you satisfied with the support you received?
Yes, without our transaction and financing advisor GMP we wouldn't have been able to complete our project. To each his own!
You need to know how to surround yourself with the right people to carry out this kind of project, and GMP's help was reassuring and essential.
What if I had to do it all over again?
We'd do the same route again!
Would you recommend GMP as a miller for bakeries looking to set up?
Yes, that's right!
Are you a happy baker today?
Yes, there's nothing to be bored about! We're learning day by day how to run our bakery with the support of Grands Moulins de Paris. The business is doing well, and our sales are growing too.
A message for all those wishing to set up shop for the 1st time?
Find and surround yourself with the right people to set up your project! The administrative side of things takes up a lot of time, and shouldn't be neglected.
