JAMAICA Blue has opened its first casual dining coffee shop in Ireland at Forestside shopping centre in Belfast, with plans to open five more in the north in the coming year before expanding into the Republic in 2023.
The globally successful coffee chain, which trades at 170 locations in seven countries, is currently undergoing a UK-wide expansion, currently engaging with landlords to secure prime locations.
The Belfast store, which has been a £350,000 investment in fit out costs, will employ up to 15 people.
As well as the multi-award-winning coffee, named after the majestic Blue Mountains in Jamaica, where some of the best coffee in the world is grown, the Forestside eaterie will offer a diverse range of high-quality dishes, freshly made on the premises.
Josh Nixon, head of estates for Jamaica Blue UK (www.jamaicablue.co.uk), said: “Our foundations are built on two simple beliefs that guide us in everything that we do - firstly, a belief in sourcing the very best coffee, and secondly, only using fresh, premium ingredients to deliver contemporary café dishes with a fresh edge.
“We’re thrilled to be opening at Forestside and excited to share our high-quality coffee and delicious menu with foodies and shoppers visiting the centre.”
Darren Best, director at Savills, who represented Forestside on the transaction, said: “We’re excited to welcome Jamaica Blue to their first opening in Northern Ireland. We’re confident it will be a popular choice for diners.”
