Maypole has long stood as one of the most recognised and cherished bakery brands in Malta & Gozo. In fact, last year the company celebrated the 125 years since its humble beginnings as a small bakery in Pietà in 1900.
What began as a traditional Maltese-bread operation has evolved into Maypole Group, encompassing a nationwide network of more than 30 retail outlets, an events-catering service, the Nenu the Artisan Baker restaurants in Valletta and Mġarr, the Granelli cafeterias and the F’IDI burger joint in Qormi – all this while remaining firmly rooted in family values and craftsmanship.
Now chaired by Mark Bajada, who brings with him decades of experience gained from building and running his own family-business, Maypole Group continues to embody the continuity of a multi-generational family enterprise. Originally acquired by Nenu and his wife Angela, and later developed alongside their sons Mario, James and Sebastian, Maypole is today supported by the third generation, preserving a legacy that has become deeply woven into Maltese daily life.
Bread, in particular the traditional Maltese loaf, il-ħobża tal-Malti, occupies pride of place at the heart of Maypole. This loaf continues to define the brand, produced using time-honoured methods enhanced by purpose-built modern technology. Fresh deliveries throughout the day, throughout the islands – a hallmark of the company – ensure consistent quality and availability across all outlets.
While the ħobża is undoubtedly its signature and mainstay product, Maypole has expanded its range of baked products to include a variety of artisan breads and traditional sweet pastries, maintaining a firm commitment to authenticity and premium ingredients. Product development is guided by careful research and steady evolution rather than radical change.
Employing around 800 people, Maypole places strong emphasis on training, inclusion, and company culture. With a diverse workforce reflective of modern Malta, the organisation invests in professional development and community integration, fostering a family-oriented environment across all levels of the business.
Each outlet is strategically designed for efficiency and convenience, responding to the pace of contemporary life, while preserving the warm, familiar atmosphere that customers have come to associate with the brand.
Under Bajada’s leadership, Maypole Group’s growth strategy remains measured and purpose-driven. It will continue to focus on sustainability and innovation, while building further on long-term strength. International interest in its traditional Maltese bread continues to grow, positioning the company for potential expansion of its operations beyond local shores.
Deeply embedded in the communities it serves, Maypole remains more than a bakery; it is a national institution built on heritage, consistency and the enduring appeal of freshly-baked bread and quality products, sticking closely to its driving principle: Just Like Home.
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