Coffee shop chain Bob & Berts is to open three new shops in Scotland this year with backing from Edinburgh-based investor BGF.
The Northern Irish business will add Kirkcaldy, Ayr and Stirling to its existing outlets in Falkirk, Dunfermline and Dumfries.
It is on track to deliver turnover of £8 million and looking at more Scottish sites to build on its strategy of expanding across market towns.
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Bob & Berts raised £2 million of patient capital from BGF in August 2017, to fund its entry into Scotland and support growth in Northern Ireland, where it was founded in 2013.
It aims to have 20 outlets across Scotland by 2022, employing around 400 people. The shops open between 7.30am and 6.30pm
Bob & Berts founder Colin McClean said: “We are very pleased with the performance of our stores in Scotland, which has reinforced our belief that there is demand for high-quality, independent food and coffee shops in traditional high street settings.
“Our aim has always been to offer something different to the large coffee chains - in terms of branding, food selection and interior design.
"We are committed to supporting the renewal of high streets through quality businesses that help them remain vibrant social hubs. We have created a friendly environment to encourage people to relax, close to where they live - and look forward to taking this culture into Kirkcaldy, Ayr and Stirling in 2019.”
Bob & Berts is which it expects grow following the opening of the new stores. Each new outlet will follow the pattern of opening from 7.30am-6.30pm, offering a combination of high-quality drinks and fresh food which has proved popular in its existing Scottish locations.
BGF is one of the UK's major investors in growing businesses and has offices in Edinburgh, London, Birmingham and Bristol.
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investor and Bob & Berts board member Gemma Hamilton said: “Over the last few years, Bob & Berts has developed a strong identity and quality offering for its growing customer base, setting itself apart in a competitive market.
The expansion of the business across Northern Ireland and Scotland is a real testament to the culture and philosophy that is winning over high street customers. As a long-term investor, BGF is delighted to be supporting the team on their continued growth journey.”
