In major cities, trendy bakeries were once the go-to spots for young people to check in and share on social media. However, their high prices have now deterred many consumers. In contrast, the bakeries of five-star hotels have unexpectedly gained popularity, becoming a new choice for workers. Baking Expo finds that these hotel bakeries not only offer high-quality bread but also attract numerous customers with their affordable prices and elegant environments.

I. The Allure of Five-Star Hotel Bakeries

Originally designed to serve hotel guests, these bakeries now draw a large number of non-residents. Known for their elegant settings, superior bread quality, and surprisingly affordable prices, they have become popular destinations for workers. For example, the bakeries at the Yansha Kempinski Hotel and Grand Hyatt Hotel in Beijing, and the Capella Hotel in Shanghai, have all become favorite spots for workers to stock up on bread.

The bread from these hotel bakeries is made with high-quality ingredients and baked with exquisite craftsmanship, yet priced much lower than those from trendy bakeries. For instance, a half-pound blueberry muffin at the Kempinski Hotel is sold for only 15 yuan, while a small loaf in a trendy bakery might cost 20 to 30 yuan. This high cost-performance ratio has delighted many workers.

II. The Secret Behind Affordable Prices

The affordable pricing strategy of five-star hotel bakeries stems from their business model, which does not rely on pastry sales for profit. Their bread prices are comparable to, or even lower than, those of ordinary cafés. For example, a loaf of bread that might cost 30 to 40 yuan in a trendy shop can be found for just over ten yuan at a hotel bakery.

Moreover, these bakeries often offer time-limited discounts and budget-friendly packages. For instance, the bakery at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel on the Bund provides discounts on bread at the end of the day. Hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel in Chengdu and Sheraton Hotel in Taiyuan have introduced 9.9-yuan mystery boxes and special bread carts, further attracting consumers.

III. Dual Assurance of Quality and Service

The high quality of bread from five-star hotel bakeries is not only reflected in the ingredients and craftsmanship but also in strict food safety management. Most of the bakers are graduates of renowned pastry schools, and their bread is baked fresh daily with a typical shelf life of just one day.

Additionally, the service at hotel bakeries is a major highlight. Staff members are well-trained and can meet various customer needs with thoughtful service. For example, if a guest mentions feeling a bit cold, a heating lamp will be provided; if they want to take photos, the staff will even help set up the scene.

IV. A New Choice for Workers

For young people, five-star hotel bakeries offer not only high-quality and affordable bread but also a unique consumption experience. Here, they can enjoy the elegant environment and service of the hotel, feeling like esteemed guests. For example, the bakery at the Capella Hotel in Shanghai has an ambiance that makes customers feel as if they are on a Parisian street.

Moreover, the convenient locations of these hotels provide the perfect starting point for workers' leisure time. For instance, after purchasing bread from the Four Seasons Hotel in Beijing, one can take a walk along the Liangma River to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The combination of affordable pricing and high-quality service at five-star hotel bakeries has made them the new favorite for workers. Here, they can not only enjoy delicious food but also find a sense of ritual and belonging.

Bakery China 2025 will continue to share more industry professional content with you, so please stay tuned!

Bakery China, organized by China Association of Bakery and Confectionery Industry (CABCI) and Bakery China Exhibitions Co., Ltd. was launched since 1997. Bakery China is the Asia Pacific‘s leading event serving the entire value chain for the bakery and confectionery market. The event presents all range of ingredient, equipment, packaging and services, and enables global leading professionals and buyer delegates to meet and share the latest innovations and thinking on manufacturing & distribution, R&D, applications and related services for bakery industry.

The 27th Bakery China would be held on May 19-22, 2025 at National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), Shanghai, covering 330,000 sqm show space. Over 2,200 exhibitors and 400,000 visits are expected.

（source: XIAOJIU）