The Vili’s Story Piecing Together the Pie

Success that comes from hard work, commitment and care.

The Vili’s story of success from humble beginnings to an iconic South Australian business is one that tugs on the heart strings. Vili’s father arrived in Adelaide in 1956, escaping the Hungarian revolution, all his belongings in one old suitcase tied together with a belt.

Survival was paramount, education was unnecessary. Both Vili’s parents had been chefs in Hungary, so creating food was already a seed that had taken hold and was starting to grow. As soon as Vili was old enough, he went to work at a local bakery at the ripe age of 14 to help support his family.

With hard work, commitment and passion, Vili and Rosemary, life and business partners, established a business that was to eventually become one of South Australia’s great success stories, distributing nationally and exporting to 24 countries globally.

Giving back to the community.

Deeply grateful for the opportunities given to them in Australia and aware of their community’s needs, they recognised the importance of giving back to the community that supported them on their journey. They have actively contributed to the development of their industry and to the prosperity of their working community.

They employ 360 staff with HR policies that support youth and mature age employment. Disadvantaged people make up 10% of their workforce. They support 57 charities and Rosemary has taken an active role serving on the board of 12 of these charities.

Today Vili still works 5-7 days a week, alongside his staff, showing the same passion and care for his products that he did almost 50 years ago when he began. You’ll find him rolling dough in the bakery, serving food at the café during lunch and chatting with his customers. Pop in to our café and say hello one day.
 

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