Romesh Ranganathan: From Comedian to Co-Owner of a Bakery Phenomenon

A familiar face has been spotted delighting customers behind the counter at a quaint bakery in Oxted, Surrey. Romesh Ranganathan, the well-known stand-up comedian and television presenter, surprised fans when he took to serving pastries and coffees at Coughlans Bakery. Patrons were left in awe as the funnyman mingled, posed for selfies, and dedicated time to chat, creating a buzz that drew in crowds keen to both savour baked goods and catch a glimpse of the comic sensation.

Since becoming a co-owner of Coughlans Bakery in 2024, Ranganathan's involvement has garnered significant attention. This 87-year-old family-run business, now boasting 31 locations across South London, Surrey, Kent, and West Sussex, welcomed Ranganathan as its first non-family board member, an announcement that brought both excitement and curiosity. His partnership not only marks a personal milestone for Ranganathan, who described it as “the partnership of the century”, but signifies a transformative era for the bakery, which aims to expand further under his influence.

A key part of Ranganathan's personal engagement with the bakery lies in his dedication to vegan products. The collaboration birthed the Ranga Yum Yum, a chocolate and Biscoff-flavoured vegan treat, which has become a staple on the menu. The appeal of this pastry is twofold: it not only showcases a delicious vegan option but also supports mental health, as a portion of the proceeds are donated to the charity CALM, highlighting Ranganathan's commitment to raising awareness about suicide prevention.

Sean Coughlan, the bakery’s owner, has consistently praised Ranganathan’s humility and genuine enthusiasm for the business. The comedian has expressed his desire to connect with the community through a hands-on approach, revealing a softer side to his celebrity persona. "It was nice to meet people. I just wanted to get involved. The crowds are better than my tour show," he remarked in an interview, further endearing him to bakery goers.

Coughlans Bakery has experienced notable growth since Ranganathan’s involvement, having expanded from 18 to 31 locations in just four years. As the bakery eyes potential franchising opportunities, it aims to compete more robustly within the UK’s bakery market, increasingly seen as a worthy alternative to larger chains like Greggs. Reviews from fans suggest that Coughlans is not just a bakery but a destination for quality baked goods, with some asserting that its offerings taste significantly better than those from its competitors.

As Romesh Ranganathan continues to balance his successful career in comedy with his burgeoning business interests, his recent foray into the bakery world is not merely a publicity stunt; it represents a deep-rooted passion for food and community connection. His dual role as a celebrity and co-owner draws new patrons in, enhancing the bakery's appeal, while simultaneously giving fans a glimpse into a more relatable and accessible side of fame.

In the end, Ranganathan's commitment to his new venture goes beyond the business; it is a heartfelt engagement with the community and a testament to his values. This new chapter in his career is not just about humour; it's about hope, connection, and a shared love for delicious, quality pastries.

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Source: Noah Wire Services