Classic Rock Cafe Company, the US-based coffee shop brand themed around rock music, has been in talks to open in the UK under franchise as part of an overseas expansion drive, M&C Report has learnt.
Director of franchise operations Brett Payne told M&C Report that the first franchise agreement has been signed to open in the Pakistani capital Islamabad and contracts are expected to be signed this month to open in three countries in the Middle East. There are also discussions to open in South Africa.
Regarding the UK, he said: “We’ve had four or five connections with people who have either found us and they like the idea but maybe don’t have the financial strength to do something like this.” He said one attempt to take on the concept to Birmingham fell through.
But Payne added: “I strongly believe it could have a very strong showing in the UK.”
The concept opened in Springfield, Missouri, in 2011. It offers own-roasted coffee in addition to frappes, smoothies, protein shakes, pastries and sandwiches.
The decor includes features guitars mounted on walls and amps and drum kits used as tables. Live band nights are also held.
