Magazine: With hard work

Balázs Erdélyi was elected president of the guild in February. We asked him about his plans.

 How long have you been taking part in the presidency’s work?

Balázs Erdélyi
president
National Guild of
Hungarian Confectioners

– I have been a member for two years and I said yes to running for presidency because of the 16 new and energetic members.

What is the trade’s opinion about the work done by the guild?

– The guild is one big family. From the inside members saw that the presidency was working hard. Thanks to the good economic environment, the trade underwent great development, in which the guild played a big part. From the outside there was some criticism, but we can build on that too if it is expressed with a helpful attitude.

 What are the main problems today?

– The biggest problem is the workforce shortage. Demand has recently increased a lot for confectionery products, but it is difficult to satisfy because there aren’t enough workers. It is also a problem that three different VAT rates must be used in confectioneries, and the rules and regulations are far too complicated. Trade education should also be reformed.

 What is the biggest appreciation for a confectioner today?

–The biggest reward for confectioners is when guests love the products they make. I am happy to see the many smiling faces on the terrace of our confectionery on a sunny afternoon, when people are eating our desserts.

 Which trade prize are you the most proud of?

– My biggest achievement was winning Ice Cream of the Year in 2014. That year I won six prizes with the two ice creams I entered the competition with! My favourite field of work is ice cream, where we can be creative day after day.

What are your plans as president?

– Our main task is completing the renovation works at our headquarters. There will be offices, and a workshop and a classroom for confectioner students. We hope that the place will be a real professional centre of the confectionery trade in the next 50 years. //