The Esendemir Sisters - Arzu, Fusun, and Gonca are the co-founders of the Mediterranean fast-casual concept, Flatbread Grill, and creators of Thumb Bread, an artisanal bread line made with natural ingredients.  Growing up with financial instability, the sisters were inspired by their father's entrepreneurial spirit to start their own business. 

The Esendemir Sisters' entrepreneurial journey is an inspiring story of perseverance, dedication, and hard work. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, they succeeded in the food business by leveraging their unique experiences and expertise. Over the past decade, the Esendemir Sisters have baked over a million pieces of handmade bread at their fast-casual restaurant, Flatbread Grill. Since launching Thumb Bread less than a year ago, they’ve already baked nearly a quarter-million pieces of bread and have landed their first major retail account.

During this episode of The Food Means Business Podcast, we discuss:

• How the sisters' father's entrepreneurial spirit inspired them to start their own business
• The challenges and obstacles with navigating permits, finding a suitable location, and dealing with rent issues
• How they paused their restaurant business during the pandemic and launched Thumb Bread
• How a background in the restaurant industry helped them succeed in the bread category
• Ups and downs on the roller-coaster ride of entrepreneurship

Connect with the Esendemir Sisters:

• Arzu Esendemir on LinkedIn
• Fusun Esendemir on LinkedIn
• Gonca Esendemir on LinkedIn
• Thumb Bread on LinkedIn
• Instagram @thumbbread
• Website:  Thumbbread.com

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