A Portsmouth small business success story is taking its next step, as artisan bakery Pauline Macarons expands into a commercial kitchen at Victory Business Centre.
Founder Pauline has moved out of her home kitchen to scale up production of her handmade macarons, grow her bakery workshops in Portsmouth, and develop new digital baking courses. The move reflects a wider trend of local business growth in Portsmouth, supported by access to workspace and support services across the city.
Pauline’s journey into the world of French pâtisserie began during lockdown, when she set herself the challenge of mastering macarons, one of the most technically demanding baked goods.
“It’s not me that chose the macaron, it’s the macaron that chose me,” she says.
After sharing her early attempts on Instagram, Pauline quickly began to build a following. As interest grew, customers started placing orders, turning a passion project into a growing Portsmouth food business.
Over five years, Pauline Macarons has developed into a recognised name among creative small businesses in Portsmouth. Key moments in her journey include:
“This move gives me the space to grow, but also the responsibility of running a bigger business,” Pauline explains.
What sets Pauline Macarons apart in the Portsmouth food scene is a commitment to quality and creativity.
Each macaron is made by hand using fresh ingredients, avoiding artificial flavourings. Seasonal produce shapes the menu, meaning flavours evolve throughout the year.
“I want customers to experience the rainbow first,” Pauline says. “You eat with your eyes so colour is really important.”
From cherry bakewell to lemon madeleine and pistachio financier, her creations bring a colourful twist to handmade macarons in Portsmouth.
As Pauline’s business has grown, so has her approach to running it. Moving into a professional workspace has sharpened her focus on costs and sustainability.
“For anyone starting a small business in Portsmouth, build your audience early,” she advises. “Share your journey and connect with people.”
Understanding costs and margins has also been crucial:
“You need to know exactly what your product costs and whether it’s worth it. If it works, grow it. If not, change direction.”
With her new base at Victory Business Centre Portsmouth, Pauline is expanding her offer beyond products into experiences and learning.
Plans include:
“I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned,” she says. “Not everyone can attend in person, so digital training is the next step.”
Pauline Macarons’ expansion highlights the strength of Portsmouth’s small business community, where food entrepreneurs and creative industries continue to thrive.
With access to spaces like Victory Business Centre and a supportive ecosystem from Portsmouth City Council, businesses can move from home set-ups to sustainable commercial ventures.