Cobs Bread Opens Thriving New Location in Stratford Mall

The newly opened Cobs Bread location at the Stratford Mall is already experiencing significant customer interest, welcoming a bustling crowd on just its second day of business. Co-owner Sara Lisk reported, “We’ve had full shelves and full lobbies since we opened,” highlighting the community’s enthusiastic response. The store’s grand opening occurred on October 27, 2023, and Lisk noted that even the dreary weather did not deter patrons from supporting the new establishment.

Community Connection Drives Expansion

This Stratford location marks the third store for Lisk and her husband, Jerry Arai, who also operate two other Cobs Bread outlets in nearby London. Lisk emphasized the couple’s desire to serve the community as a key factor in choosing Stratford. “It’s my favourite part of what I do, just being able to be in the community, make connections, support organizations, and just kind of get to know everybody,” she explained. Lisk and Arai have lived in St. Marys for approximately two years and have developed a fondness for the Stratford and Perth County area.

The couple initially sought a suitable location in Stratford about six years ago but faced challenges in finding the right fit. With the mall under new ownership and undergoing renovations, the opportunity to establish a presence in the revitalized space became a reality. Arai remarked on the positive changes happening at the mall, saying, “They’re doing some really great things, revitalizing it here, and we were able to work it out here now, where we could have the external entrance that we needed to welcome our customers with lots of parking.”

Commitment to Quality and Community Engagement

Lisk’s connection to Cobs Bread dates back to her university days when a friend introduced her to the brand. Her first experience with the bakery left a lasting impression: “A wall of bread and an amazing smell.” This encounter sparked her passion for the company, leading her from a sales trainee to the sales manager, where she garnered national awards. “I just fell in love with the brand, the products, the people,” she shared, highlighting her dedication to both the business and the community.

One of the distinguishing features of Cobs Bread is its commitment to fresh, handmade products. Arai noted, “You can taste the difference that fresh, handmade product really makes to the overall taste of the quality, and it’s keeping that tradition of artisanal baking alive.” This focus on quality is central to their business philosophy.

Beyond providing fresh bread, Lisk and Arai are actively involved in community initiatives. They currently engage with several organizations in London, such as the Alzemhier’s Society, where they conduct baking classes, as well as supporting YFC and the Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario. Looking ahead, they are considering partnerships with the Stratford Chefs School to expand their community outreach.

Lisk envisions her bakery as a platform for positive change, stating, “If I can make a difference in the world through my bakery, whether it’s from providing an exceptional workplace or helping support a charitable cause, or just by building meaningful connections, this is the vessel in which we could make a positive change.” This commitment to community and quality positions Cobs Bread as a welcomed addition to Stratford’s local economy.