J's Pastry Shop is a family-run, full-service bakery/pastry shop located in Pensacola, Florida. First opened in 1946, J’s offers a large variety of cakes, pastries, donuts, etc. In October of 2000, Michael and Katie Neyra, together with Michael's brother, purchased J's. The Neyras did some updating and remodeling of the business themselves, and operated the business together until October, 2012 when Michael's brother opted to leave the area. Michael and Katie now own the business.
The absence of Michael's brother in the business has been significant. Marketing, record keeping, and other 'back office activities' were his areas of expertise. Michael was, and is, the baker, along with his talented spouse, Katie, whose specialty is wedding cakes. The couple faced a daunting task on their own, mostly due to too much work and too little business expertise. At the suggestion of a trusted friend and attorney, the Neyras contacted the Florida SBDC at UWF for assistance in developing a business plan and seeking funding options.
Growth Acceleration Consultant Dan Cavanaugh began working with the Neyras in early 2012. He has since helped the couple put together a comprehensive business and growth plan. While working on the plan, Cavanaugh helped Michael and Katie address several management issues, including using an employee leasing company and developing plans to improve record keeping, internal cash controls and inventory control. They also addressed ways to reduce employee turnover and increase sales through point-of-sale software and various marketing initiatives.
Michael and Katie plan to continue their relationship with the FSBDC at UWF as they work to build J's Pastry Shop into a must-visit Pensacola destination.
