Debbie Lee, founder and creative director of Bisou Bake Shop is a remarkable entrepreneur who has been able to sustain her cupcake business in Kuala Lumpur for over sixteen years. Despite the challenges of the highly competitive food industry, Debbie has managed to establish Bisou Bake Shop as one of the top destinations for cupcakes and has won the hearts of many loyal customers.
Debbie’s work ethic, focus on quality, and treating her team like a family are essential components in her success. Debbie has been innovative in her approach to marketing and branding, in addition to her commitment to quality. She has leveraged social media to showcase her products, and has worked hard to build a strong brand identity that resonates with her target audience. Her efforts have paid off, as she has cultivated a devoted following of customers who not only enjoy her cupcakes, but also value the overall Bisou experience.
Despite her success, Debbie has faced challenges along the way. One of the most significant of these was the closure of her outlet of 12 years in KLCC, a prime location that was a key part of her business strategy. When the outlet closed, Debbie was forced to reevaluate her approach and find new ways to reach customers. While the closure of the KLCC outlet was a setback, Debbie’s resilience and adaptability allowed her to continue to grow her business.
Keep going
Our perseverance is what distinguishes Bisou Bake Shop from the competition. Never give up, but instead continue to build on a solid foundation layer by layer. As entrepreneurs, we serve others behind the scenes. Sometimes, we do not get the due recognition but always go back to why you started the business. Don’t listen to the naysayers and critics.
Learning from mistakes and lessons
Building a company requires constant pivoting and layering. The longer you work at it, the better you will become at managing people, marketing, finances, and every other aspect of your company. Take note of the lessons you learn and improve.
Your team is your family
Some Bisou employees have worked with Debbie for sixteen years. “You can’t grow if you don’t have a good team. I’ve seen my employees’ children grow from toddlers to teenagers. Our office has a large communal table where everyone can work but often has children at it during school holidays. As a working mother, I understand how difficult it can be to balance work and children, especially when the majority of them do not have a babysitter. At Bisou, we work flexible hours; there is no guilt in picking up your children when necessary, as long as the work is delivered.”
Foster the right work culture
Transparency, flexibility, and empathy. “Learn what makes them tick and how to communicate in a way that brings out the best in each person. Work together as a team, if there is a complaint, everyone knows what to do. Feedback makes us better in what we do. We all make mistakes, but hold yourself accountable for your actions, learn from them and move onwards.”
Gratitude goes a long way
Express your gratitude when it is due and motivate your team. “That is the lesson I learned: if your team does something exceptional, acknowledge it. Instead of instilling fear, instill gratitude. I am grateful to them because they go the extra mile, try their hardest, and give their all. Your business will go a long way if you have the right intention and a good heart.”
During the pandemic, Debbie started doing live streaming of teaching others to bake, which led to expanding Bisou’s online presence to Singapore with the launch of baking and decoration kits.While the closure of the KLCC outlet was a setback, Debbie’s resilience and adaptability allowed her to continue to grow her business from strength to strength.
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Debbie of Bisou Bake Shop is a true entrepreneur who has built a successful cupcake business in Kuala Lumpur through her focus on quality, innovation, and resilience. Her ability to adapt to challenges and to build a loyal following of customers has enabled her to sustain her business for over sixteen years, and it is clear that she will continue to thrive in the years to come.
Bisou Bake Shop has outlets in 1Utama, Lot 10, and Bangsar Village. New stores will be opening in The Linc KL, Mont Kiara 163 and IOI City this year! Stay tuned.
Follow Bisou Bake Shop’s Instagram here for more updates
Order their cupcakes, cakes and more here.
Image credit: Bisou Bake Shop
