Stories of change - Eastwoods
Eastwoods' story is an example of a business embracing change and persevering in the face of adversity.
Eastwoods' journey is a shining example of resilience and the power of adaptability during trying times. Despite the setbacks caused by the Black Summer bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, Eastwoods was able to pivot their business model to provide delicious, ready-made meals to a new target market.
Their success is a testament to the importance of thinking outside the box and finding a unique solution to a problem. By embracing change and persevering in the face of adversity, Eastwoods was able to overcome hurdles and emerge stronger than ever.
"Food is a great healer that connects people and communities"
Eastwoods opened in 2017 as a deli, cafe, and cooking school. Unfortunately, after trading for only two years, the Black Summer bushfires hit the Bega Valley, followed swiftly by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a result, Eastwoods had to make significant changes to their operations. Initially, they shifted to providing home-delivered, ready-made meals, but this temporary change ended up being a permanent way of doing business.
Eastwoods quickly adapted their kitchen into a disaster relief kitchen to help provide meals to families affected by the Black Summer bushfires.
With the help of 270 volunteers, they were able to deliver 46,322 meals to locations spanning from Mallacoota to Mogo.
"Your local Council can assist your business with support programs. Reach out to them for more information and make the most of available resources"
After the bushfires, Eastwoods re-opened their cafe for only three weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
During the lockdown, Eastwoods used their experience with batch cooking to plan, cook, and deliver meals straight to customers' doorsteps. This pivot to ready-made meals turned out to be a good move, as their revenue tripled.
"Thinking outside the box and doing something that no one else is doing can pay off"
Eastwoods' success can also be attributed to its affiliation with NDIS and HCPs, with people on these packages being able to claim 70% off the price of their meals. They also signed up to the software platform Cookaborough, which helped accurately cost the produce, design the menu, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.
"Although there will always be hurdles, perseverance is key"
Eastwoods' new target market includes time-poor families, people carrying out kitchen renovations, parents with newborns, couples for their date night, people who cannot cook, dinner parties and special events.
Find out more about Eastwoods by visiting their website.
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© Bega Valley Shire Council 2024
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Contact Us
- 02 6499 2222
- council@begavalley.nsw.gov.au
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Zingel Place
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Bega NSW 2550 -
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