Helping the exponential growth of a market leader Mister Baker, involved evaluating their business plan, redesigning for impactful branding and creating a new architectural concept that drives any visitor to truly celebrate every possible occasion. Customer service was optimized, and the brand’s identity came to life, helping every visitor connect with the brand, feel supported, and inspire them to turn to loyal customers.
Mister Baker had been the UAE’s #1 celebration cake destination since 1991 — but after five years of declining sales amid rising competition, the challenge had become strategic, not operational. The brand was losing resonance with younger consumers; store layouts caused congestion and limited a smooth, modern customer journey; and the overall store environment no longer reflected the brand’s contemporary ambitions. With 18 stores across all 7 Emirates, the business needed a complete rethink of its model, brand, and experience to stay relevant and attract the next generation of consumers.
STIRIXIS Group worked closely with Mister Baker’s management to clarify and redefine strategic objectives and create a business plan for the investment and its expected return. The team evaluated the business plan, redesigned the logo and branding, designed a new architectural and operational concept, and organised the full roll-out across the chain with project management and author’s supervision of all stores. Spatial reconfiguration introduced an open layout with perimeter displays and smoother customer flow. An enhanced coffee area increased dwell time, while a staff-focused layout improved workflow and service speed.
The new holistic concept was implemented in 19 selling stores with impressive results, using a pilot-first approach where flagship stores tested and refined the concept before scaling. The network expanded from 18 to 23 stores post-engagement. The project was recognised with the IPA Best Retail Interior Design Award UAE / Dubai 2018–2019. Today, Mister Baker is revitalised as the UAE’s leading celebration cake brand, appealing to younger generations while reinforcing its market leadership — with further expansion into online channels and same-day delivery across the UAE.
Today, Mister Baker is revitalized as the UAE’s leading celebration cake brand, appealing to younger generations while reinforcing its market leadership across 18 stores. The concept was rolled out to 19 stores, earned an IPA Award, and has since grown the network to 23 locations, with expansion into online channels and same-day delivery across the UAE.
“Mister Baker, established in 1991 has been the #1 celebration cake destination in the UAE. With rising competition, some store sales started declining over the last 5 years. It was decided that a facelift, or more, was needed. The objective was to renovate the network of 18 bakeries by modernizing the brand experience in-store and image appeal for the next generation of consumers. STIRIXIS Group studied the business to invest their inputs in several aspects of operation starting from concept through construction, branding, signage, market research and customer service. The first two renovations were completed in the last quarter of 2017. They were successful and the other 16 shops have been scheduled for completion within the next 18 months. More than consultants, STIRIXIS Group became partners and stakeholders of Mister Baker. They have been both quality and cost-conscious, ensuring that the company’s interests and the return on investment are prioritized. Above all else, they are professional, dedicated and a pleasure to work with.”
— Taizoon Khorakiwala, Partner – Mister Baker, Owner/Founder – SwitzGroup