Irish bagel company Bagel Bar Coffee House has announced plans to expand into the UK.

Originally launched in 2001 on Poolbeg Street, Dublin 2, the business is opening an outlet in Cardiff in three weeks time.

Commenting on the plans, Ray Cowzer, managing director, said that should the expansion go well, the business hopes to open 200 stores across the UK.

"Four years ago the wheels fell off the market and we had to redefine ourselves and closed stores in Ireland," he said. "Now, the focus is back on."

Cowzer added that the business is looking to expand across mainland England, including London, Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham. Some smaller towns are also being considered.

The company operates 13 sites in Ireland, as well as one in the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

The shops sell a variety of bagels including wheat, gluten and dairy-free options. Options include: Beef Philly (roast beef, melted cheddar, onions and mild American mustard in a plain bagel); Cajun (Cajun chicken, jalapeños, red onion, cheddar cheese and mayonnaise in an onion bagel); and Manhattan (bacon, guacamole, cheddar, chive cream cheese in a spinach bagel).

Coffee and pastries are also sold in-store.