The little bakery operated by the Pune Seva Zarthosthi Mandal at MG Road has become a regular haunt for foodies owing to the fresh snacks available at pocket-friendly prices Walking down main frame MG Road,this is one of the few places on the busy road that is a delight for shoppers and tourists looking for a quick snack and even working professionals who need a food break from work. For the bakery run by the Pune Seva Zarthosthi Mandal,it is all about being able to sell good food at economical prices thereby benefiting not only the Mandal but also its customers. Speaking more about the place,Jehabux Desai,who is in charge of the sales operation,says,We do not manufacture products here. We only re-sell them. We outsource the various products like rolls,sandwiches,and brownies and then sell them. As the place is run by the Seva Mandal,the money that we make as profit is used to run the trust,as well as to maintain the place. While people might be skeptical about the low prices,Desai says that it is only in the best interest of the people that the products are sold at reasonable rates. Our profit margins are not as high as other bakeries and eateries. However what I can vouch for is the fact that it is not only clean and hygienic but also value for money. Right from veg cutlets costing Rs 7 per piece,to chocolates made by visually challenged children,everything sold here is fresh and pocket friendly. From 1.30 to 5 pm,we offer a 'buy one,get one free' scheme on most bread items. In the evenings,after 8.30 pm,everything is sold at half price, Desai explains. The main reason behind this being that the food which is usually outsourced from various manufacturers cannot be stored,and has to be sold on a day-to-day basis. Also,the various bread-based products are brought in twice during the day to ensure that the customers are served fresh food. Rishab Shenoy,whose office is situated at MG Rd,says,I walk down here to eat as it's every easy on my wallet and I can eat more for less. It offers more value for the money spent! Desai reiterates the price factor,saying,We don't think our bakery is a 'cheap' place to eat at. We'd rather be reasonably priced than overly-expensive. Our goal is to ensure that everyone involved in the process gets their money's worth.
