EIGHTY years! That’s how long Herman’s Modern Bakery Inc. has been in business in the CNMI. That alone tells you that the company is already an institution in the Commonwealth and has roots so deep they are now a part of the fabric of CNMI history.
In fact, you cannot tell the story of the CNMI without also touching on the role that Herman Modern Bakery has played in the development of the islands. The fact that the highway where both Herman’s Modern Bakery and the Tan Marikita’s Café are located on Saipan is named after the company’s founders is quite telling, and their consistent presence in the Marianas Variety’s Best of the Marianas contest is unsurprising.
CNMI institutions
Both Herman’s Modern Bakery and Tan Marikita’s Café are now such beloved institutions that they are considered must-visits for any child of the CNMI who returns to the islands even just for a visit. Their best-selling “Sweet Bread” is the stuff of nostalgia and is considered Herman’s Modern Bakery’s signature item, in addition to other bestsellers like their Guyuria, Pan Tuba, Chamorro cake, and Blueberry Cream Cheese Log.
In addition, Herman’s Modern Bakery has managed to maintain its legacy as a family-owned business while successfully expanding its reach and product offerings. That is a major accomplishment that reflects on the company’s longevity, resilience and adaptability. From its World War II days to the early years of this new century, Herman’s Modern Bakery has been passed within the family from generation to generation and that is no small feat, said Michael R. Guerrero, who is the company’s current General Manager and third generation family member.
‘Its long-standing presence in the CNMI, combined with a reputation for excellent customer service and community involvement, makes it a cherished spot.’
<p style=”text-align: right;”><strong>—Michael R. Guerrero, Herman’s Modern Bakery General Manager </strong>
Quality products
Guerrero says Herman’s Modern Bakery stands out among all other bakeries in the CNMI due to its commitment to quality, fresh ingredients, and traditional recipes that resonate with both locals and visitors.
“Its long-standing presence in the CNMI, combined with a reputation for excellent customer service and community involvement, makes it a cherished spot,” he added.
Continuous innovations
That’s not to say that Herman’s Modern Bakery is done innovating. With many new bakeshops and specialty bakeries popping up across the islands, Herman’s Modern Bakery stays competitive by continually introducing new products, adapting to customer preferences, and using social media for marketing. The company also focuses on sustainability and sourcing local ingredients to enhance their appeal, Guerrero said.
Community engagements
Besides just selling bread, Herman’s Modern Bakery also engages with the CNMI community through events, sponsorships, and collaborations with local organizations. They also participate in charitable activities and educational programs related to baking and nutrition with frequent field trips to see how the production of bread happens. These have resulted in Herman’s Modern Bakery receiving community recognition and awards throughout those years, which Guerrero said is a testament to the company’s success.
Storied history
Herman’s Modern Bakery has been in business since 1944, founded by Herman R. and Maria T. Guerrero. “Their long-standing vision, legacy and presence has allowed them and the generations of family to build a loyal customer base over the eight decades,” said Guerrero.
Herman’s Modern Bakery intends to remain a family-owned business. With the business now being run by the descendants of Herman R. and Maria T. Guerrero, Guerrero said the next and newest generation are now trained through hands-on experience in the bakery, mentorship from long-employed bakers, and formal education in business management and culinary arts. The younger generations are excited to bring fresh ideas into their operations, like harnessing the powers of technology to automate some bakery processes. Guerrero said other innovations include modernizing baking techniques, introducing new flavors, and enhancing online ordering and delivery services.
‘Thank you’
“Our family and the entire staff at Herman’s Bakery are dedicated to the continuation of providing quality baked goods and excellent service to residents and visitors, and look forward to many more years of success,” Guerrero stated. “Un dangkulu na si’yu’us ma’ase, ghilisow, salamat po, arigatou gozai masu, gamsahapnida, and xièxiès.”
The present generation of the Guerrero clan that now runs the 80-year-old company is posed to introduce even more new innovations as the company forges ahead.
The present generation of the Guerrero clan that now runs the 80-year-old company holds up a photograph of the company’s founders, Herman R. and Maria T. Guerrero.
