Christen’s Gingerbread

When the team behind Christen’s Gingerbread approached Total Fitouts Wide Bay, they had a clear goal—to transform an empty industrial shed in Hervey Bay into a purpose-built, HACCP-rated bakery. Known for their iconic gingerbread cookies, produced in Maryborough for over 30 years and beloved by schools and retailers across the country, the business had outgrown its original premises. With demand rapidly increasing and production runs exceeding 5,000 cookies at a time, the need for a larger, more efficient facility was essential. The challenge was to deliver a high-functioning commercial bakery fitout that upheld strict food safety standards while supporting the handmade charm that defines the Christen’s Gingerbread brand.

The Brief

The brief was clear: take an empty industrial shed and turn it into a fully operational HACCP-rated commercial bakery. The new facility would need to include high-capacity food production zones, dry storage, designated decorating and packing areas, as well as functional and comfortable staff spaces such as a lunchroom and office. The client needed a commercial hospitality fitout that balanced function and compliance while maintaining the hand-crafted quality the brand is known for.

That’s where Total Fitouts Wide Bay came in. The team of shopfitting experts specialises in creating high-performance spaces across the hospitality and food production sectors. Drawing on local knowledge, industry experience, and national supplier network, the team was ready to turn the client’s vision into a reality.

From Shell to Showpiece: The Transformation

At first glance, the site was a blank slate—a steel-framed warehouse with no internal structure or services. But with a well-developed set of plans provided by the client and clear goals in place, the Total Fitouts Wide Bay team launched into action.

The transformation was comprehensive. Internal walls were framed and lined using insulated panel systems suited for food-grade environments. These Bondor-style panels are not only thermally efficient but also deliver a seamless, easy-to-clean finish—an essential requirement for maintaining hygiene in a bakery. All materials were selected with food safety, durability, and maintenance in mind.

Flooring was another critical component. The client needed a finish that could withstand moisture, heavy foot traffic, machinery loads, and rigorous daily cleaning. A commercial-grade vinyl solution was installed, offering both slip resistance and longevity. The pale speckled finish also helps reflect light and maintain visibility, contributing to a bright, well-lit workspace within the commercial hospitality fitout.

Designing for Workflow Efficiency

A key priority in this project was creating a production flow that made sense. From the raw ingredients arriving at the facility, through mixing, shaping, baking, decorating, and packaging—the layout was designed to support a linear and efficient process.

Large-scale commercial bakery equipment was installed and integrated into the commercial hospitality fitout, including conveyor belts, dough rollers, and cutting machines. Workstations were set up with plenty of room to manoeuvre, while overhead power outlets and hanging service cords helped keep cables off the floor, maintaining safety and orderliness.

One of the standout elements of the commercial design is the spaciousness and uncluttered layout. Even with multiple staff members working simultaneously, there’s enough room to move between tasks without disruption. Mobile cooling racks line the walls for easy cookie rotation, and strategically placed benches allow for decorating and packing to occur simultaneously.

Split-system air conditioners were installed throughout to maintain temperature control—a must in a bakery where climate can impact dough performance and product shelf life. These systems also contribute to staff comfort, ensuring a productive and pleasant working environment year-round.

Staff and Support Spaces

Behind every great production facility is a team of people that keep it running. In addition to the bakery’s operational areas, the commercial hospitality fitout included a dedicated office and staff lunchroom. These areas were constructed with the same attention to detail, with clean lines, durable finishes, and ergonomic design features.

Having these on-site spaces adds value to the business beyond production—it supports staff wellbeing and provides space for administration, planning, and breaks. The inclusion of proper amenities also ensures compliance with workplace standards and contributes to a professional and efficient business environment.

Collaboration with Local Trades: Bringing the Vision to Life

A seamless commercial hospitality fitout requires the expertise of many skilled trades, and this project was no exception. Trades involved in the commercial bakery fitout included Fraser Coast Joinery, Core Electrical, LT Walls & Ceilings, Bin King Skip Hire, Rob Nissen’s Floor Covering, Bondor Queensland, Scott Sparks Painting, Mr Air Refrigeration, Peter O’Brien Consulting, and CT Plumbing. Each team played a vital role in bringing the design to life, ensuring that the commercial fitout was completed on time and to the highest standard.

The success of the project was a result of this collaborative effort. “Every trade involved brought their expertise to the table, and it was this collaboration that allowed us to deliver a space that exceeded our client’s expectations,” said the Total Fitouts Wide Bay team.

Meeting Compliance Standards

Operating a food production facility requires more than just good design—it also demands strict adherence to compliance codes. The facility needed to meet HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) standards, which focus on identifying and managing food safety risks. To achieve this, materials, construction methods, and layout all needed to align with food-safe principles.

Peter O’Brien Consulting provided valuable guidance throughout the compliance process, helping ensure the build met regulatory expectations. From ventilation and drainage to pest control and cleanability, no detail was overlooked.

A Fitout That Supports Growth

With the new facility now in full operation, Christen’s Gingerbread is in the ideal position to continue growing their much-loved business. The production team has the space, infrastructure, and comfort they need to work efficiently and safely, while the brand itself is set up for future expansion, wholesale distribution, and continued national reach.

For the Total Fitouts Wide Bay team, this commercial hospitality fitout was more than just a build—it was a chance to contribute to the success story of a local icon. From initial consultation to final handover, every phase of the project was guided by quality, functionality, and the needs of a business built on tradition.

Looking for your next commercial fitout? Inquire with us today.