NI favourite named one of best craft bakeries in the UK at top industry awards

“This nomination belongs to all of us, we’re absolutely delighted!”

After becoming one of the biggest names in sweet treats across Northern Ireland, a popular local bakery is being recognised amongst the best in the UK.

Dougies Goodies has gone from humble beginnings in Ballymena to being one of the country’s fastest-growing bakeries, now stocked in almost 70 locations across NI.

With flagship stores in the Co Antrim town and Belfast, Dougies Goodies was started in 1983 by Dougie Coulter and when the business was acquired back in 2022, he and his wife remained in the business, making the goodies they became known for.

READ MORE: Dougies Goodies confirm opening date of flagship Belfast bakeryREAD MORE: The Wing Society confirm opening date of new Belfast location

Dougies Goodies, now owned by Frank and Georgina Warwick, is one of only six businesses in the UK to be nominated for Craft Bakery Business of the Year at the Bakery Industry Awards 2025.

In their 38th year, The Baking Industry Awards recognise and reward the “very best people, products, and businesses bakery has to offer”.

Recognised as one of the most prestigious events in the sector, the awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and dedication across the industry.

The only spot in Northern Ireland to make the final shortlist, judges told British Baker: “The team spirit oozed out of Dougies Goodies and could be felt both in front of and behind the scenes.

“They know their customer base and have a clear strategy for delivering growth with excellent products for their price point,” the panel added.

Team Dougies Goodies will now head to the grand final in October to hopefully come away with the top prize.

Frank Warwick, owner and Chief Cake Taster at Dougies, said: “It’s an honour to be recognised among the best in the industry.

“We’ve been baking since 1983, and our success has always come from the same place – the skill and dedication of an incredible team, past and present, who give their all every single day.

“This nomination belongs to all of us, we’re absolutely delighted!”

To find out more about the awards and other finalists, see here

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our What’s On newsletter.