Established in 2017, Pasta Uliana originally made and sold fresh pasta at food markets across the UK, but spotting a gap in the market, the pasta experts decided to switch things up and create a business that is now infamous in the Bath region.
Opening its doors to the public in 2019, Pasta Uliana provides bespoke pasta making classes along with a variety of events for those who want to experience a taste of Italy without the airmiles.
Recognising the increasing demand for pasta knowledge in the region, Frederico made the decision to diversify using his business and events expertise, he decided to shift his focus from making and selling fresh pasta to hosting unique pasta making events.
In 2021 the business rebranded to become what is now known as The Pasta Laboratory, teaching the people of Bath and beyond how to make authentic fresh pasta at home.
With the rebrand and ambition to continue growing the business, Federico decided to reach out for some external support and contacted the Workforce for the Future team at the West of England Combined Authority. After an initial assessment, the team directed him to one of the project partners, Business West.
Claire Bedding, Business and skills advisor at Business West, helped Federico to develop his network within the area; providing him with contacts at Access Creative College in Bristol and Bristol University so he was able to access a wider employee pool through work experience placements and internship schemes.
Students from both the College and University were able to assist Federico in many areas, for example;
- Creating a marketing plan
- Undertaking detailed research
- Offering social media expertise
This provided Pasta Uliana with more exposure across a previously untapped audience and helped the business grow the followers across social media platforms. Using the insights from this new audience, Federico had the opportunity to investigate new locations for holding private events.
Claire commented:
“Working with Federico has been a complete joy. Through the consultation process we quickly got to the detail of how the Workforce for the Future Programme could support his business aims and he was quick to respond to suggestions which meant we could action initiatives efficiently and get him what he needed.
Federico has since gone on to collaborate with Workforce for the Future partner Bath College, hosting practical seminars for the students in the art of making fresh pasta, growing his brand amongst the local community.
“I wasn’t expecting so much support from the Workforce for the Future project. They have been extremely receptive to my ideas and all the team at Bath College have been helpful in moving my business in the right direction”
Federico has developed a thriving business that enables him to live out his passion daily, but this would not have been possible without the help of the Workforce for the Future Programme.
“It is about finding the right doors and opening them, and Workforce for the Future can help.”
Workforce for the Future provides free tailored, in-depth support to help you ensure your employees have the access to the skills, training and support that your business needs to thrive. You’ll receive free support from our expert partners to ensure your business can identify ongoing skills needs, attract and retain talented people, access the right training and development and invest in your current and future workforce.
