Make-over for home of the #coffiheads

Coffi heads are enjoying a new experience in Cardiff Bay following a refurbishment and extension of Coffi Co’s Mermaid Quay store.

A six-figure investment in Coffi Co at Mermaid Quay includes a loan from the Development Bank of Wales. The popular family and dog friendly outlet is now one of the largest coffee shops in Wales.

Improvements include the installation of a new mezzanine floor and outside seating and decking area with capacity for 120 guests. The refurbishment of the internal space to include the addition of a new mezzanine floor has also seen the internal capacity move to 150 covers.

Open 364 days of the year, Coffi Co was established in 2014. The first store opened in two shipping containers in Porth Teigr in Cardiff Bay. There is now a team of 50 staff across five sites including the original Porth Teigr store, Mermaid Quay, Cathays, Penarth Marina and Porthcawl.

Managing Director Justin Carty said: “From day one, we’ve focused on building a business that combines the key ingredients of a great leisure driven location, welcoming atmosphere and the very best coffee. We’re keen to continue with our growth strategy by focusing on continually improving and expanding our offer in new exiting leisure driven locations cross South Wales.

“Choosing the right investment partner wasn’t just about the numbers. We wanted an investment partner that was local, that understood are offering and that cares about the long-term success of our business. The team at the Development Bank of Wales ticks all of those boxes plus more. We’re delighted to have their support and are grateful that they want to work with us as we grow.”

Matthew Wilde is an Assistant Investment Executive with the Development Bank of Wales. He added: “Coffi Co offers quality coffee in a location that showcases Mermaid Quay, and is the perfect spot to work, socialise and meet colleagues, friends and family. Justin is committed to ensuring his business delivers a superb customer experience, and takes pride ensuring this standard is consistent across his five stores.

“The refurbishment work at the Mermaid Quay site will enhance the facilities and experience for customers, and create an exciting platform to build on and further develop the Coffi Co brand. We are very proud to be supporting Justin in his commitment to providing a unique and quality service to customers across South Wales.”

The investment has come from the Wales Business Fund which is part-funded by the ERDF, through the Welsh Government and set up to support businesses with fewer than 250 employees, based in Wales or willing to move here.