Hummingbird Bakery founder Tarek Malouf has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list for his services to baking and confectionery.

Malouf told British Baker it was a wonderful accolade to receive and said he hopes it encourages others to embrace entrepreneurship.

The baker, who immigrated to London from Lebanon as a young child, opened his first Hummingbird Bakery in Notting Hill in 2004 to promote his style of American baking, which was virtually unknown in the UK at that time.

Thirteen years later, the company has six branches across London and Richmond, and recently launched its fourth branch in The Middle East through a franchise agreement with Gourmet Gulf Company.

“Cupcakes and American baking in general were considered particularly sweet to British taste buds. Despite this, four cookbooks and many cupcakes later, I’m glad I followed my instincts and took a risk,” Malouf told British Baker.

“Luckily this demand has been sustained and I’m delighted classic American goodies, such as Red Velvet, are now widely recognised and enjoyed across the country.”

He also attributed the success of his bakery to his family.

“With the belief and support of my family I have been able to create a business, The Hummingbird Bakery, which provides employment for over 130 people in the UK and one that continues to grow.”

Hummingbird announced last month that it will be opening it’s first bakery outside London, in Guildford, this summer.