Cupcake bakery announces huge investment; Livonia-based business expanding

LIVONIA, Mich. (WXYZ) - It's a story Action News broke Monday night right here on WXYZ.com

The Livonia-based cupcake bakery Just Baked has landed a major investment.

Garden Fresh Gourmet in Ferndale has given the small business a major infusion of capital to expand.

The deal was completed Tuesday morning.

The exact amount of the investment has not been revealed.

"I feel like Cinderella," said Just Baked founder Pam Turkin. "I get to go to the ball. It's a very exciting day and an exciting time."

The investment means Just Baked will expand with new franchises. It is hoped there will be up to 200 locations nationwide by 2014.

The specialty cupcakes will also be sold in grocery stores.

"For me, it's probably what I dreamed for, " Turkin said. "Any business that you start you always dream of that moment, and this is that moment for us."

Turkin started the business in 2009 with a single bakery in Livonia. Today there are six locations across metro Detroit.

With the investment, they are expecting to have 50 franchises across the state by the end of next year.

"We truly believe Just Baked is an incredible brand in an emerging market and will be a huge hit in area grocery stores and in other markets beyond Michigan," said Dave Zilko, Garden Fresh Vice Chairman.

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