Erwin dreamed of starting a business when he was a child and a furniture factory was his first career.

The German was deeply attracted by Taicang's serene life when by chance he went on a business trip to Taicang in 2012.

So, he decided to establish a trade company in the city and just enjoy its comfortable life.

Erwin, who loves traditional culture, began to frequent Shaxi's ancient town after settling in the small city.

Last year, Shaxi Merchants Group invited Erwin to open a bakery in the ancient town which luckily happened to coincide with his own thoughts.

Although it is cosy to live in the city, it's hard to find authentic German bread here and Erwin missed them.

In 2015, he opened the first Brotecke in the ancient town and three others have been opened since.

The bakery's owner, Erwin, puts the fresh pretzels away. [Photo/WeChat account: taicangdaily]