‘Devastating’: Baked by Us owner Jess Robinson speaks out on prolonged roadworks

A popular Geelong cupcake shop that employs young people with a disability says its struggling to stay open amid a flurry of construction. Now, they’re asking the council for help.

Baked by Us owner Jess Robinson with Cook and Andy Bugg. Picture: Brad Fleet

A Geelong business owner whose shop employs young people with a disability says roadworks around the CBD are putting her business at risk.

Baked By Us owner Jess Robinson told the Geelong Advertiser surrounding roadworks and private developments had made it difficult for customers to access the store.

“Over the last year, it has become harder and harder to operate and we’re now at a point where we almost can’t afford to pay rent,” she said.

Baked by Us owner Jess Robinson says that there is so much construction around her its hurting her business. Picture: Brad Fleet

“The cost it takes to run the shop coupled with the loss of income due to roadworks around the area has been pretty devastating.”

The popular cupcake store provides work and employment opportunities to people living with disabilities in the Geelong region.

Ms Robinson said she’d always prided herself on building the business sustainably and without outside financial help, but changes in circumstances meant customers now had to walk 10 minutes to access the store.

“We’re an independent service, so there’s been no government support for us,” she said.

“Our support program can’t operate without the cupcake shop.”

She called on the City of Greater Geelong and the state government to provide 15 minute parking along Ryrie St outside their store.

“We’d like to see 15 minute parking installed outside our shop so people can drop in and continue to purchase from us,” she said.

“Some days there have been entire days of stock that just haven’t sold because people can’t access the store easily.”

It’s also making it difficult for our employees to be dropped off.”

In a bid to drive more traffic, the store also opened a click and collect option from its backdoor on Cuzens Pl.

City planning and economy director Gareth Smith said the city provided a range of different programs to support businesses.

“We’re aware it’s a challenging time for some in the area. Officers have been in contact with Baked By Us and will visit the site to discuss the business owner’s concerns,” he said.

“We are working closely with this business and others on support measures, including investigating alternative parking options, marketing and promotion opportunities.”

Originally published as ‘Devastating’: Baked by Us owner Jess Robinson speaks out on prolonged roadworks