Cardiff-based Coffee#1 opened its first coffee shop on 30 April 2001. A quarter of a century later, the community-focused chain operates more than 130 stores across Wales, Southern England and the Midlands – supported by parent company, The Nero Group. Here, Coffee#1’s Managing Director Bruce Newman talks about 25 years of business, weathering rising costs and year-round demand for iced beverages
What’s changed most about the UK branded coffee shop market over the last 25 years, and how has Coffee#1 kept pace with new trends?
Twenty-five years is a long time in business and a long time in coffee, too. The UK market is not only larger, but there is also a far greater array of smaller, niche operators entering the market. We have always ensured that our brand is true to its core ideas: community, premium coffee and outstanding service. We always look at how we can elevate the customer experience through our store design, our coffee and our menu.
Iced beverages are a great example of that, it is now such a strong part of the menu, but we always make sure any innovation feels right for the brand, and doesn’t just chase a new fad.
We’ve also ensured technology has kept pace with the market. Our Coffee#1 App allows us to offer loyalty rewards with payment, and it gives us a means to talk directly to our customers. Over 40% of all transactions are now through the app.
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