As Bluestone Lane moves to reignite US growth, what are its options?

As the Australian-inspired café group onboards a new Chief Commercial & Development Officer to oversee store development, a tougher economy calls for a fresh approach

Known for its Aussie-inspired hospitality, all-day brunch and boutique venues, New York-based Bluestone Lane is one of the most celebrated café chains in the US.

In 2018, the group raised $25m in a Series E venture capital round, led by New York-based RSE Ventures – funding which helped it double its footprint from 30 to 60 stores by 2022.

However, following the pandemic and the subsequent cost-of-living squeeze, further outlet growth has yet to materialise – with World Coffee Portal data showing that Bluestone Lane closed three net stores last year.

It currently operates 56 stores across 10 US states, including large footprints in its home state and California.

However, seeking to revive growth, Bluestone Lane has now appointed a new Chief Commercial & Development Officer to oversee its US store development.