Construction BUSINESS

Independent coffee chain Bob & Berts has achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the opening of its 30th store, marking its first venture in 2024. Located in Strabane, Co Tyrone, this new addition is the company’s first foray into out-of-town retail park locations. Founded in 2013 by Colin McClean, the chain is renowned for its distinctive style, premium coffee, fresh food offerings, and community-centric ethos. The Strabane store, situated in Pavilion Retail Park, spans 3,500 sq ft and has created over 25 job opportunities for the local community.

The establishment features an interior capacity for 110 covers and 10 outdoor seats, operating seven days a week from 8 am to 9 pm. This move aligns with Bob & Berts’ commitment to providing a welcoming environment for shoppers in the retail park. The expansion was supported by BGF, a major investor, which injected £2 million into the company in 2017 to facilitate geographic diversification. With the unveiling of the Strabane unit, the total store count reached 30, distributed across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the North of England.

Colin McClean expressed his enthusiasm, calling the milestone a monumental achievement and emphasizing the strategic decision to enter the out-of-town retail park market. The company aims to double its current store count over the next three years and become a 70-site business, with a longer-term ambition to reach 100 sites across the UK. Co-owner David Ferguson highlighted Bob & Berts’ adaptability and market leadership, positioning the brand as a leader among independent coffee chains. The move into the out-of-town retail park market represents a new area for growth and innovation for the company.

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