A new challenger is emerging in Britain's fiercely competitive bakery market, and it's setting up shop in some very familiar locations. Bakery79, a relatively unknown food-to-go specialist, is rapidly expanding across the UK by moving into former Greggs concessions.
The Quiet Takeover
While Greggs has long been the undisputed king of the high street for a quick sausage roll or doughnut, Bakery79 has been making significant inroads since its UK launch earlier this year. The chain is growing at an impressive rate, with 12 new sites already established, all strategically located within Park Garage Group forecourts where Greggs previously operated.
The majority of Bakery79's presence is currently concentrated in Southern England, but the bakery hasn't forgotten the North. Shoppers in Newcastle and Durham have already spotted the new arrivals, suggesting this is far from a regional experiment.
What's on the Menu?
Bakery79 offers a comprehensive menu designed to compete directly with established bakery giants. Morning customers can choose from breakfast classics including bacon baps, sausage baps, breakfast pots, potato poppers, and baguettes.
One confident staff member told Kent Online they believe their breakfast bowl surpasses Greggs' offering. The menu extends well beyond morning fare, featuring a full range of coffees, pizzas, halloumi bites, chicken bites, cookies, doughnuts, sandwiches, and the all-important sausage rolls.
Employee Jackie highlighted what she believes sets Bakery79 apart, telling Kent Online: "In other stores you usually get a lot of pastry and not much inside, but these are full, especially the ones with beans. The sausage rolls are really nice too."
Customer Reactions and Community Vibe
The bakery chain actively promotes a sense of community, aiming to make each location feel warm and welcoming. This approach appears to be resonating strongly with customers.
Regular patron Emily K shared on the company website: "The community vibe at Bakery79 makes it special, and the baked goods are to die for!" Another customer, Mike C, added: "Always fresh, always tasty – Bakery79 is my go-to for a quick bite and great coffee!"
The quality seems to match the atmosphere, according to social media reviews. TikTok user @Liam_Lav discovered the bakery after it replaced his local Greggs in Ashington, Northumberland. He told his followers the food looked "absolutely lush" and described the pizza as "unreal." Another social media user made the bold claim that Bakery79 serves the "best pepperoni pizza."
Responding to popularity, the bakery has expanded its pizza range, recently introducing a Meat Feast option. This puts them in direct competition with Greggs, known for its own popular pizza slices.
Price, however, could be a deciding factor for many consumers. Amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, Greggs' pepperoni pizza slice costs £2.75, while Bakery79's version is priced at £2.79. For budget-conscious shoppers, even a small difference can influence their daily choice.
With its rapid expansion, focus on community, and food that customers are describing as exceptional, Bakery79 is positioning itself as a serious contender in the UK's bakery war. The quiet takeover of Greggs locations suggests we'll be hearing much more about this emerging chain in the coming months.
