Bear Coffee, a burgeoning coffee brand based in the Midlands, has set its sights on a significant expansion, aiming to quadruple its footprint in the UK. Founded in 2016 by friends Craig Bunting and Michael Thorley in Uttoxeter, the company has already established seven locations across the Midlands and Cheshire.
The brand’s journey began with the opening of its first coffee shop in Derby in 2017. Now, Bear Coffee has ambitious plans to open 22 additional stores over the next five years. To fuel this growth, the company has launched a crowdfunding campaign with a target of £2 million.
Investors participating in the campaign are offered various rewards, ranging from free coffee and brunch to exclusive discounts and lifetime subscriptions to Bear’s at-home coffee range. These incentives are Bear’s way of expressing gratitude to its supporters and customers who have believed in and supported the brand’s journey.
Bear Coffee is known for its sustainably sourced specialty coffee, seasonal fresh food, cocktails, and craft beer, all served in thoughtfully designed locations throughout the Midlands. The inspiration behind the business stems from Craig’s experiences traveling in Australia and Michael’s adventurous background in the Royal Marines.
What started as a modest operation in a shed, using a supermarket espresso machine, has evolved into a thriving brand that has created over 130 local jobs. Reflecting on the campaign, co-founder Craig Bunting shared his enthusiasm: “Since opening the doors of our first store in 2016, Bear has become more than just a place to grab a coffee; it’s a community hub where like-minded individuals come together to enjoy great coffee, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.”