For the past 45 years, Jacquette’s Bakery has been Broomall’s go-to destination for special occasions, holidays or just to celebrate any day with something sweet. Cases are brimming with every imaginable type of pie, cookie, cake, Danish, donut etc. Dennis Jacquette opened the bakery back in 1980 and this past January, he passed the reins to Chris Burling, who shares his passion for quality baking and community connection. The sale of Jacquette’s marks the end of one era and the exciting beginning of another, as Dennis now works as an employee while Chris learns the craft from the master!
Last fall, Dennis was ready to retire and looking to sell the bakery. Meanwhile, Chris, who had been living abroad with his family for many years, was planning to move back to the United States and looking for a new opportunity. “All the stars definitely aligned,” said Chris. “Sometimes timing is everything.”
Chris and Dennis are both Newtown Square natives who were family friends when Chris was growing up. Chris has fond memories of the two families making meals to bring to a men’s homeless shelter together. “Besides delicious and nutritious home cooked meals that our families would plan and cook collaboratively, Dennis would always bring the dessert–treats from the bakery,” Chris recalled. “I know I’ve eaten countless Jacquette’s donuts over the years.”
Chris is the kind of person who thrives on new beginnings and bold adventures. After graduating from Georgetown University, he spent a lot of time in the Southwest, where he had the opportunity to do conservation work in several National Parks and public lands. He also met his wife Daniela there and the two moved to Daniela’s home country of Germany for a brief time. The couple have spent the last 15 years living in Hong Kong, where they’ve raised their sons Fletcher and Nils. “One thing I love about Hong Kong is that you can go from a bustling city to a peaceful hiking trail or beach in under an hour,” Chris said. During his time there Chris worked in Key Account Management in the Testing, Inspection and Certification Industry. He enjoyed his work with a top manufacturer of hydration products he was proud of, including reusable and flexible water bottles.
Although Chris and Daniela enjoyed living and working in China, they always knew it’d be temporary. “When the pandemic hit and life changed, we began to think about moving back to the United States,” Chris recalled.
In the the fall of 2024, Chris headed back to Newtown Square, to visit his parents and to explore opportunities for his family. “Not only were we open to where we would live, I was also open to entering a new industry,” Chris explained. “When I learned about the sale of Jacquette’s, I knew it would be an awesome opportunity. My previous work in the manufacturing industry gave me the confidence to do it.”
Since officially taking the reins in January, Chris said he has a tremendous amount of respect for the systems that Dennis put in place. “A successful bakery owner must manage inventory, control costs, and ensure consistent product quality,” he said. “I am definitely learning from the master and I’m working hard to get to his level,” he added. For Dennis, it’s been fun to watch Chris. “He’s a really good fit,” he said. “He’s not only willing,
but very capable!”
Since he’s started, Chris has been learning every aspect of the business including baking, working with suppliers and managing staff. He’s also made it a point to spend time out front at the register building relationships with regulars to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. “I love meeting customers,” he said fondly. “It’s probably my favorite part, chatting with people and getting to know them.”
As Chris is learning the business, Dennis is enjoying being an employee. “I’m enjoying the baking and the hustle and bustle of each day without the stress of ownership,” said Dennis. “I love talking to or waving at the many loyal customers and friends that visit the bakery every day. It’s now a multi-generational relationship with many families.”
Jacquette’s customers are definitely in good hands. “With Chris at the helm you can expect a continuation of the same great product and service you’ve grown to expect from Jacquette’s Bakery!” said Dennis. “And Jacquette’s would not be where we are today without each and every one of the wonderful employees that have been and continue to be part of the Jacquette’s family.” Be sure to stop in to Jacquette’s to welcome Chris and congratulate Dennis as he begins a new life chapter.
Jacquette’s Bakery is located in the Shoppes at Sproul Plaza at 2076 Sproul Road, Broomall. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website. For more information and to place orders, call today at 610-353-2550.