An independent brunch and coffee brand based in Derby has confirmed that it will be opening a sixth site early next year.
BEAR, which serves speciality coffee, brunch, cocktails and craft beer from morning until evening, has revealed that it will open its latest site at Barons Quay, in Northwich, Cheshire.
To date, BEAR has an outlet in Uttoxeter, which was its first branch, as well as two outlets in Derby - one in Iron Gate, where the company is based, and another in the Intu Derby shopping centre. It also has branches in Stone, in Staffordshire and another in Soho, London.
But BEAR has ambitions to open up to 30 sites over the next five years and become a high street challenger brand to the likes of Costa and Starbucks.
Last month, it was reported that the firm had secured an increased funding facility from HSBC UK to help it realise its growth strategy.
Craig Bunting, who co-founded the business with Michael Thorley, said: “2019 has been a huge and exciting year for BEAR.
“We opened our first BEAR in 2016, with the aim of serving great coffee in a warm and welcoming environment, but what really sets us apart is our love for coffee products and connecting with the community around us.
“Since we first came to view the site at Baron’s Quay, we’ve not been able to help ourselves falling more and more in love with the beautiful location, the area surrounding it, and the people we’ve met on our visits - it’s just making us even more excited to wholly immerse ourselves within the community here.”
The unit that BEAR will be taking at Baron’s Quay overlooks the River Weaver and neighbours an Odeon cinema.
Councillor Richard Beacham, cabinet member for regeneration and growth at Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “BEAR is rapidly building a strong reputation as a dependable, responsible brand, sourcing local and Fair Trade produce wherever possible, and promoting a positive, healthy lifestyle through its menus.
“This is welcome news at a time when the council is focusing on bringing independents to Northwich, encouraging people to shop local and reducing our carbon footprint.”
