Coffee Republic Deli launches in Northern Ireland

Coffee Republic Deli has opened its first Northern Ireland outlet based in Abbeycentre, Newtownabbey and plans to open a second in Strabane this month.

Chief Executive of Coffee Republic Steven Bartlett said: 'Northern Ireland represents a crucial market for Coffee Republic as it possesses a vibrant, burgeoning café culture. The company is looking forward to introducing the Coffee Republic brand and becoming part of the Northern Ireland community. I am sure that this is a precursor to an exciting period of global expansion.'

The duo responsible for bringing the brand to Northern Ireland is Coffee Republic's Master Franchisees for Ireland, Siobhan and Robert Mooney. They intend to sub-franchise five additional Coffee Republic Deli outlets this year.

Siobhan said: 'We are delighted to launch a flagship Coffee Republic Deli and 'Centre for Training Excellence' in The Abbeycentre, one of Northern Ireland's longest established shopping centres.

'The Abbeycentre outlet has provided the opportunity to build a local supply chain for products and support services and will play a pivotal role in the future training and development of potential franchisees from all over Ireland. We are looking forward to developing the brand throughout Ireland and attracting new franchisees. The interest expressed to date from potential franchisees has been very encouraging.'