Olga Barbina started her small Russian dumpling business in 2011. Since then, it has expanded into a fully fledged bakery, delighting the Auckland suburb of Albany with her traditional Russian treats. Olga spoke to the team about GASTRONOMY.
What is your company background, how did you start the business?
“We’ve been doing business as ‘World of Dumplings’ since 2011. Our initial idea was to produce Russian dumplings (pelmeni and vareniki), introduce the product to the New Zealand market and consumers. And, of course, supply the Russian community who know the product very well! From day one we decided that we would not compromise on quality and use only natural ingredients without any artificial flavours or preservatives.”
What are the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
“Since we started business we have increased the production range. Now it’s not only dumplings (veg and non-veg), but also bakery, gastronomy, confectionery and many other food items. We increased production, but we still try to retain high quality. For instance, for our bread which we produce, we use long, complicated processes, based on old Russian traditions. It requires more time and cost, being based on brewing process and using sourdough instead of yeast. But the final product is healthier and quite popular among customers.”
Has there been any recent company news?
“We moved the business to new premises in November 2015. It helped us to better organise our production area and also arrange a proper, spacious area for retail and our customers. We increased range of products and decided to name our business ‘GASTRONOMY.’ Our team grew with the addition of a new baker and confectioner, who produce lovely East European style pies, cakes and bread. Also we offer full lunches (soups, meal, salads and drinks, including the traditional Russian fermented drink, Kvas.”
What are the plans for the business moving forward, is there any expansion on the horizon?
“We do not plan to stop expanding our range of products. We’re looking at adding some new vegetarians options of dumplings, as well as new salads and ready to eat meals, with a few traditional European recipes. It would be very interesting and exciting for our customers if we add a few new cakes and confectionary!”
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability?
Currently all our products are available to purchase at our shop GASTRONOMY at 19/270 Oteha Valley Rd in Albany, Auckland. Some products are available for purchasing online (www.marusyanz.com) with Saturday delivery in Auckland. In the future some of our cakes and bread might be presented in small deli shops and café and we would love to increase volume for retail and wholesale customers.
