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Sophie Gilliatt
Co-owner, The Dinner Ladies Australia
Sophie Gilliatt is the Co-Founder of The Dinner Ladies Australia, a successful meal delivery business she started with her friend Katherine Westwood.12
Business Background
The Dinner Ladies began in 2007 when Sophie and Katherine, who met when their children started kindergarten together, decided to re-enter the workforce.1 They started by cooking meals for a friend who offered to pay them, which sparked the idea for their business.1
Growth and Success
From humble beginnings in Katherine's backyard shed, The Dinner Ladies has experienced significant growth:
- Initially delivered 20 meals per week
- By 2017, they were delivering 12,000 meals weekly
- As of 2022, they deliver over 90,000 dinners per week
- The company now employs more than 100 staff members1
Business Philosophy
Sophie and Katherine's approach to their business includes:
- Focusing on authentic, real food that satisfies both modern and nostalgic cravings
- Utilizing technology to improve efficiency in all aspects of their operations
- Aiming to simplify life for working mothers by providing trustworthy meal solutions1
Personal Impact
For Sophie, owning The Dinner Ladies has allowed her to achieve financial independence within her marriage, highlighting the personal empowerment that can come from entrepreneurship.3
Sophie Gilliatt's success with The Dinner Ladies demonstrates her entrepreneurial spirit, leadership skills, and ability to grow a small idea into a thriving business that meets a significant market need.