Oakland's Grand Bakery, a longstanding Bay Area institution, is being sold for a noteworthy sum of just one dollar. The bakery's owner, Sam Tobis, decided to prioritize tradition and dedication over financial gain, offering someone the chance to uphold the bakery's rich legacy and breathe new life into the 64-year-old kosher business.
SFGate reports that along with the nominal one-dollar fee, the new owner will acquire "the brand, the customers, the recipes, and the current staff" of the beloved community bakery. Tobis also expressed willingness to negotiate over the bakery's equipment and vans, potentially offering to carry a loan.
Tobis, who bought the Grand Bakery seven years ago with no prior experience, was determined to preserve its legacy for future generations. Originally reported by KRON 4, although the bakery has not had a physical storefront, it has remained dedicated to serving Oakland's diverse community since 1959. Now, Tobis is ready to transfer the bakery to another capable, committed individual.
The impetus for selling the bakery stems from Tobis' simultaneous management of the bakery and Saul's Restaurant & Deli in Berkeley. His focus has been divided between the two ventures, making it difficult to fully devote himself to both. According to another interview with SFGate, Tobis is in the market for a "young Jewish baker who is passionate about the food and savvy in business," who can carry on and enhance the bakery's legacy as a valued local establishment.
Surprisingly, this unusual sales tactic has garnered considerable interest. Potential buyers have already contacted Tobis in less than 24 hours since the announcement, and he predicts it could take some time to find the perfect successor. It is of great importance to Tobis that the bakery remains in the hands of someone who genuinely appreciates its integral role in the community. The Grand Bakery is indeed a crucial component of Oakland's cultural landscape, providing services for bar mitzvahs and families sitting shiva, and hosting school-based challah-braiding events and Purim carnival hamentashen-making sessions.
