Cardiff-based Espresso#1 opened its first espresso store on 30 April 2001. 1 / 4 of a century later, the community-focused chain operates greater than 130 shops throughout Wales, Southern England and the Midlands – supported by guardian firm, The Nero Group. Right here, Espresso#1’s Managing Director Bruce Newman talks about 25 years of enterprise, weathering rising prices and year-round demand for iced drinks
What’s modified most in regards to the UK branded espresso store market during the last 25 years, and the way has Espresso#1 saved tempo with new tendencies?
Twenty-five years is a very long time in enterprise and a very long time in espresso, too. The UK market will not be solely bigger, however there may be additionally a far larger array of smaller, area of interest operators getting into the market. We’ve got all the time ensured that our model is true to its core concepts: group, premium espresso and excellent service. We all the time have a look at how we will elevate the shopper expertise via our retailer design, our espresso and our menu.
Iced drinks are an ideal instance of that, it’s now such a powerful a part of the menu, however we all the time be sure that any innovation feels proper for the model, and doesn’t simply chase a brand new fad.
We’ve additionally ensured expertise has saved tempo with the market. Our Espresso#1 App permits us to supply loyalty rewards with fee, and it offers us a method to speak on to our prospects. Over 40% of all transactions at the moment are via the app.
