The Century Bakery in Bridgeton, New Jersey made headlines recently for taking a stand to protect its employees by making a bold request to its customers. On April 16, the bakery posted on Facebook, asking customers who were wearing strong perfumes or colognes to consider using the drive-thru instead of entering the store. The reason behind this request was to safeguard the health of employees who suffer from asthma, especially during the high pollen season. The post explained that the addition of strong fragrances could exacerbate breathing difficulties for the staff, who were already struggling with respiratory issues due to the pollen count.
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According to Century Bakery’s general manager Debby Diaz, the decision to make this request stemmed from a concerning incident where multiple customers entered the store wearing overpowering scents, causing discomfort and health issues for the employees. Diaz shared that one staff member had a severe asthma attack due to the strong perfumes present in the store, highlighting the urgent need for action to protect the well-being of the employees. The post on Facebook garnered significant attention, with both employees and customers expressing gratitude towards the bakery for standing up for the health and safety of its workers.
The online response to Century Bakery’s request was mainly positive, with many commending the bakery for prioritising the health of its employees. Some customers who suffer from asthma themselves appreciated the consideration shown by the bakery and expressed their support for the initiative. However, not all reactions were favourable, with some individuals questioning the bakery’s right to dictate what customers could wear. Despite the mixed responses, Debby Diaz reaffirmed that the bakery was not banning customers wearing perfumes but simply asking for consideration towards those with health conditions.
Established in the 1930s, the Bridgeton bakery has a rich history of serving the community with a variety of baked goods, including doughnuts, custom cakes, and a special pastry known as “Frie.” Over the years, the bakery has evolved into a social enterprise, providing employment opportunities for homeless youth and children in the foster care system. This unique approach to business has garnered support from the local community, with customers appreciating the bakery’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond just serving delicious treats.
The story of Century Bakery’s plea to customers serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in everyday interactions. By sharing their concerns about the impact of strong fragrances on their employees’ health, the bakery has sparked a conversation about accommodating diverse needs and fostering a more inclusive environment for all. The support received from both local patrons and online followers demonstrates the power of community solidarity in addressing health challenges and promoting well-being in shared spaces. As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of running operations during challenging times, the story of Century Bakery stands out as a testament to the value of prioritising health and empathy in all aspects of customer service.
