One of the UKs fastest-growing independent coffee brands, Black Sheep Coffee, continues rapid UK expansion with a major multi-unit deal in Merseyside and 11 new sites in the pipeline. Tony McDonough reports

Global coffee brand Black Sheep Coffee, which currently has over 82 locations across five countries, has announced the signing of a major multi-unit development deal which will see the opening of 11 new sites across Merseyside.

Black Sheep is a specialty coffee chain known for using the Robusta beans alongside arabica, which gives their coffee a stronger flavour. They also offer a range of freshly baked pastries, smoothies and breakfast items, sandwiches and sweet treats.

The deal follows a phase of unprecedented growth for Black Sheep Coffee, which was founded by students Eirik Holth and Gabriel Shohet in a single unit in Camden in 2013. It now has more than 150 new UK sites committed under similar multi-unit deals.

The multi-unit model is designed to attract experienced operators who are committed to opening and running a minimum of 10 locations.

The majority of Black Sheep’s sites are in the UK, including two in Liverpool, Lancashire and a new opening in Glasgow in November is set to become Scotland’s biggest ever coffee shop.

This latest expansion marks a significant milestone in Black Sheep Coffee’s UK growth strategy, positioning the brand as a key player in the region’s coffee hospitality scene.

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Leading on the region’s developments will be Lancashire-based Yoloways Ltd, headed up by experienced operators Aaron Chetwyn and Axel Dehy.

Aaron brings a wealth of experience having worked in leading commercial roles for KFC UK & Ireland, and head of restaurant excellence for Gastronomy Foods UK.

Izzy Childs, EMEA growth director for Black Sheep Coffee said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Aaron and Axel to the Black Sheep family.

“Their experience and energy are exactly what we look for in franchise partners. Merseyside is buzzing, and we can’t wait to get more shops open.”