Start Up Success

Oct 11, 2019

Friso, Head Chef and Manager of Timbermill Café at Bulli, has recently been announced as a FINALIST for the Best Café in Illawarra and South Coast Region in the highly-regarded Local Business Awards.

Friso was tasked by the owners of Timbermill Café to launch an unknown brand in a competitive sector and turn it into a profitable and thriving business, embraced by locals and tourists alike. In one year he has not only achieved commercial success, but he has also seen it get voted #2 out of 89 local cafes in Wollongong and been announced as a Finalist in the Local Business Awards. An incredible achievement by any measure.

Friso credits his business studies at The Hotel School for fine-tuning his marketing acumen and harnessing his entrepreneurial spirit to strategically grow the business. Originally from the Netherlands with a background as a successful sous chef, Friso was well versed in the fast-paced demands of kitchen operations. Armed with industry knowledge and strengthened business acuity, Friso has been able to successfully navigate the pitfalls of most start-ups.

An integral factor of Timbermill Cafe’s success lies in the strategic partnerships Friso has implemented with local businesses, offering incentives for their employees and customers. It is a win-win proposition. The local businesses feel their employees and customers are receiving a value-add and Friso has ensured a secured clientele pipeline. Of course, a superior product is the ultimate business retainer and Friso’s passion for using the finest locally sourced produce, meticulously prepared and served by friendly, attentive staff has proven a popular formula for success. Local entertainers have also been introduced into the outdoor café to create a fun and welcoming vibe where people feel they are arriving at a “destination” precinct.

All these elements are highlighted on social media where the café enjoys an engaged following and is able to promote upcoming events and new menus. All in all, Friso’s success story with Timbermill Café is a fascinating case study of the growing need for the future leaders in the hospitality sector to embrace the latest marketing and business strategies to capitalise on the growing “Experience Economy”.

Congratulations Friso and Timbermill Café!

*Winners of the Local Business Awards will be announced in September.