Baking Industry Awards 2025: Peter Wenzel receives Outstanding Contribution to the Baking Industry award

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This award celebrates those who have dedicated their lives to the baking industry, going above and beyond the day job to drive change, share knowledge, and support others.

Winner: Peter Wenzel, founder and chairman, Wenzel’s the Bakers

Peter Wenzel has enjoyed a long and illustrious career in the baking industry, one which has spanned half a century. Having trained as a master baker, he embarked on his bakery journey by establishing the first Wenzel’s the Bakers in Sudbury Hill, London in 1975.

His dedication and passion for excellence, coupled with his desire to maintain the traditional art of baking, has seen the business flourish. Currently celebrating its 50^th anniversary, Wenzel’s has grown to operate more than 100 shops across London and the Home Counties employing 1,200 people. His daughter, Sarah Wenzel, is now CEO with Peter taking up the role of chairman.

His hands-on approach and unwavering focus have been ‘instrumental’ in Wenzel’s success, and his impact can be felt in the DNA of the business. Indeed, many staff over the years have heard his rallying cry of ‘c’mon’ as he seeks to foster a sense of community and uphold standards. To this day he continues to participate in the weekly ‘Wenzday Workshops’ speaking to all shop managers to give thanks and praise the teamwork seen across its estate and production site.

But beyond being a masterful businessman, he has also made a huge difference to the local communities where the bakeries are located.

Peter often cites his background, coming from a very poor upbringing, as a driver behind Wenzel’s consistent support for the community. This has seen him spearhead charity endeavours and community support initiatives, donating more than a million baked goods to local schools, providing practical and financial support to many organisations, and offering employment opportunities to those with disabilities.

“Peter’s dedication and support go far beyond anything we could have dreamed of, but we know we are not alone in his support,” said a trustee from Watford Workshop, one of the charities Wenzel’s has supported. “We know of many other charities and local community groups that would share similar stories and, yet, because of Peter’s humility his many good deeds often go under the radar.

“This award is positive recognition of Peter’s contribution not just to baking but to the communities he has served for half a century,” they added.