Degani Bakery Cafe

“The perfect cup of coffee in a great atmosphere – that, in a nutshell, is the appeal of Degani and the secret to our continued success. From that first small bakery café in Clifton Hill in 1999, Degani has evolved into a brand synonymous with quality, comfort and a consistently high level of customer service.

Growth has occurred organically. It started with customers going out of their way to buy a takeaway coffee or freshly baked vanilla slice or fruit bun, and word spread. We were clearly doing something right. In no time, business minded people were coming to us – passionate coffee drinkers – who had noticed the influx of customers in our stores and wanted to know how they could join the Degani family, and be part of our success story.

These same people knew that by trading under the Degani name they could not only prosper but retain a sense of their own individuality as entrepreneurs and active members of their local communities. That’s why our stores have always retained the allure of one-off independents, a phenomenon integral to Melbourne’s café culture.

Together, we have created something special over the past 15 years, selling almost a million cups of coffee a month, but in many ways, we’ve only just begun. Bringing the Degani experience to the rest of Australia is our next big challenge and we are looking forward to more motivated, passionate people joining us on the journey.”

- George Pezaros, founder, Degani

“I have been the proud owner of Degani Northcote since December 2011. Prior to opening my business I was a longtime waitress at another exceptional Degani store at University Hill, Bundoora, and it was there that I gained a lot of knowledge, experience and a real feel for Degani.

To me, Degani is not just a brand – it’s a world of possibilities, a culture, a lifestyle and most importantly, a family. We are proud to provide the highest level of customer service. We offer great coffee and fresh meals using only the finest ingredients. If I won’t eat it, I won’t serve it. This has made a huge impact on the success of the business.

Opening a business of this calibre at the age of 26 was a huge step for me, and took courage, but I believed in myself, my skills and knew deep down I could do it. I took the risk and went all the way. It took hard work – days, nights, weekends, double shifts, but the sacrifices have more than paid off. I have created a business that is renowned in the northern suburbs of Victoria.

Since we opened two and a half years ago, turnover has more than doubled and in the summer months increases by a further 20 or 30 per cent. This rapid growth has also led to sizeable staffing increases, from 14 to the current team of 52.

We’re at a good stage now and the business is running smoothly. In the next two years, I would love to open another store. Work isn’t work if you love what you do, and I feel so fortunate to fulfill my dream every day when I walk through those doors. I feel the buzz, I look at the smiles surrounding me, and I stand proud knowing what I’ve achieved.”

- Tammy Missailidis, business partner, Degani Northcote, Victoria