Coffee chain Starbucks will open its first store on the Isle of Wight in October.
In partnership with local franchise 23.5 Degrees, the outlet will open on St James Street in Newport.
The new store forms part of a franchise deal between 23.5 Degrees and the coffee chain, with plans to open 12 stores by the end of the year, creating 120-150 new jobs.
Designed to reflect the character of the local area, the Newport store will retain its original townhouse features, including original fireplaces and a bespoke lighting feature.
It will include a large open area downstairs with a community table, with smaller rooms upstairs.
The first Starbucks franchise store was opened in February this year in Liphook Services, Hampshire, and since then the brand has partnered with several companies as it develops.
According to the brand, these partnerships are part of the Starbucks’ strategy to achieve profitability in the UK by opening more stores in high footfall locations.
Mark Hepburn, director at 23.5 Degrees, said: “This is the eighth store we will have opened and we are delighted to bring the first Starbucks to the Isle of Wight.
“Our partnership with Starbucks represents our company’s progression with a brand which mirrors our own values, sincerely caring about the people in our business, and committed to consistently delivering for the customer and the local community.”
Jane Coleman, director of franchising, Starbucks UK, said: “Our franchise offer gives local companies throughout the UK the opportunity to bring their own expertise and experience to our business, and gives us the chance to serve new communities.
“Our partnership with 23.5 Degrees drives growth for the business, creates jobs, and will provide quality coffee for customers in Newport.”
A message on the 23.5 Degrees website says Starbucks’ growth plans include opening 300 stores over the next three to five years.
The 23.5 Degrees brand was set up by Anil Patil, Satwinder Sandhu, and Mark Hepburn in March 2012.
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