Starbucks has opened its first franchise coffee shop in the UK, at Liphook Services in Hampshire, as it looks to grow its franchising business.

The outlet is the first of eight to open in a deal with Southampton-based business 23.5 degrees. Locations for the additional seven stores include Portsmouth, Bournemouth, Farnborough, Trowbridge and Southampton.

Kris Engskov, managing director, Starbucks UK & Ireland, said: "The UK is one of the most important markets for Starbucks. There are plenty of opportunities throughout the UK for great coffee, and franchising will help us to build the Starbucks brand in those towns and locations we have not yet had the opportunity to serve."

Mark Hepburn, company director, 23.5 Degrees, said: "This partnership with Starbucks represents our company’s progression with a brand we feel mirrors our own values, sincerely caring about the people in our business, and committed to consistently delivering for the customer and the local community."