The German-owned Tchibo chain of coffee shops, which is pulling out of its 51 high street retailing sites and 100 shop concessions in Sainsbury’s and Somerfield, told British Baker at Café+ that, in three to four months’ time, it would launch a new coffee service to bakery retailers. Tchibo, based in Epsom, Surrey, will provide its piacetta ground coffee, together with equipment and pods (small, fully equipped counter units) and larger fully equipped counters, to bakery and café retailers.

National accounts manager David Baikie told British Baker: "The offer comprises coffee, dispensing equipment, utensils and counter. It comes in three sizes and is designed to fit into the smallest footprint or larger café areas. The coffee will be bean-to-cup. Fairtrade and organic versions will also be available."