Turning Dreams into Reality: Meet Jill Hawkes, Our Newest Bakery Owner

For Jill Hawkes, her first interaction with COBS Bread left a lasting impression that continued to spark the aspiration to become a franchisee. Jill had worked in Retail Management for over 20 years and always enjoyed the challenge of the retail environment, the different seasons, the customers and the staff.

Through her journey in retail management, her dream to become an entrepreneur remained. Jill is now opening her first COBS Bread location, The Hub, and her dreams have turned into reality!

When did you join the COBS Bread family? Why did you decide to open a COBS Bread bakery?

My first experience with COBS Bread was in 2021 at the Dartmouth location’s grand opening. I was instantly impressed by the quality of their products, exceptional customer service, and inviting atmosphere – so much so that I often traveled from Truro to Halifax just to visit. As I learned more about the brand, I admired their commitment to giving back to communities, being recognized as a “Great Place to Work”, and upholding strong values. Feeling aligned with their mission and eager to grow professionally, I applied to become a franchisee in August 2023.

What are you looking forward to about your new bakery?

What excites me most about opening my bakery is the joy and anticipation on my customers’ faces as they step inside for the very first time. I still vividly remember my first visit to a COBS bakery – the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods, the warm smiles from the staff, and the genuine pride they took in their products. That experience left a lasting impression, and it’s exactly what I am to recreate for everyone who walks through my doors: a welcoming space filled with the comforting smell of fresh bakes and the sincere passion behind every loaf and treat.

Before joining COBS, were you much of a baker?

Before joining COBS Bread I was surrounded by traditional meals and baked goods. This love for home-cooked meals and baking carried over into my own family where I found joy in preparing large dishes and creating sweet treats. Baking became a way to bring people together, whether it was for family gatherings, school events, or simply sharing moments at home. My favourite creations included cherry pie, chocolate cake, chocolate chip cookies, and scones.

How are you planning on getting involved in the community?

I plan to collaborate with the Hub Shopping Center by supporting their monthly events and activities designed to bring the Truro community together. I also plan to partner with local charities to tackle food insecurity and provide support to those in need. I’m exploring ways to champion youth development by creating educational and employment opportunities by partnering with Dalhousie University’s Truro Campus.

And a couple of questions, just for fun!

If you were a treat or loaf from COBS, which one would you be and why?

If I were a COBS product, I would be the Cinnamon Loaf because I’m warm, comforting, and full of delightful surprises!

What’s your favourite baking pun or joke?

Let’s roll – there’s no time to loaf around!

Welcome to the next delicious chapter, Jill. We’re so happy to have you.