Castlemaine local, Stefan Dannhausen, is set to become the Goldfields region’s answer to the Easter Bunny, having launched his new owner-managed business, Dimpex Import and Wholesale.

Interested in starting out on his own but initially unsure what type of business he wanted to run, Stefan drew on fond memories of enjoying SCHO-KA-KOLA with his family as a child to come up with a business idea that allowed him to explore his German heritage.

“In Germany, it’s a bold, massive flavour, enjoyed by motorists, truckers, students, teachers, and gamers; anyone who needs a little kick alongside the sugar part.”

Launching Dimpex Import and Wholesale in December 2021, Stefan enrolled in Asuria’s Bendigo intake of the NEIS program, looking for something different from his time working in IT.

“It was nice to be in contact with other people and see what others were doing. It was a very friendly environment and a positive experience,” says Stefan.

As for life as a sole trader, Stefan says it’s given him the ability to create the work-life balance that works for him.

“I’m very pragmatic, and I like to work for myself and not for someone else; it’s just my preference. I also need to be flexible because I have a five-year-old daughter.”

Thankful for the opportunity Asuria has given him to become his own boss and to introduce a taste of his heritage to locals, Stefan is excited to see SCHO-KA-KOLA on the shelves at Maldon Takeaway, 48 Main and a variety of stores in Castlemaine and Bendigo.

If you have a business idea and think you might be eligible for New Business Assistance with NEIS through Asuria, visit www.asuria.com.au/neis. For more on Dimpex Import and Wholesale’s range of products, visit dimpex.com.au.

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 8 April 2022.