Starbucks continues drive to be largest coffee chain in UK

Starbucks has unveiled its plans for further expansion in its bid to maintain its status as the largest coffee chain in the UK.

The company, which currently has 550 outlets in the UK, told Caterer it is now focusing on locations outside of its traditional home on the high-street.

The coffee chain is targeting sites in universities, hospitals, travel concessions, theme parks and even hotels under the licensed model - where the site runs and staffs the Starbucks and pays the chain a royalty for the branding.

A deal has already been struck with Alpha Airports to run Starbucks in UK airports, with the first store to open in Jersey airport in October, but it will only be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to future expansion with Starbucks already in talks with some campus universities.

In an exclusive interview with Caterer, Rupert Lawrie, director of business alliances and licensing at Starbucks UK, said: "It is early days for us but the opportunities are real drivers. They key thing for us though is brand fit, the licensee has to fit our company culture, but as a commercial offering we have a very attractive return on investment."

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By Christopher Walton

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