Jamaica Blue launches first Northern Irish store

Jamaica Blue has opened its first casual dining coffee shop in Ireland at the Forestside shopping centre, Belfast, as part of the coffee chain’s UK wide expansion.

The new site has seen the business invest £350,000 in fit out costs, and it will employ up to 15 people as part of the company’s “significant” commitment to the Northern Irish market.

As well as coffee, the new Forestside site will also offer a range of dishes, freshly made on the premises. 

The menus will feature an array of “classic dishes with a twist”, including salads, open flatbreads and the brand’s all-day brunches, as well as a wide range of sweet and savoury options. There will also be a range of vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

Additionally, Jamaica Blue plans to open five more across Northern Ireland in the coming year, expanding into the Republic of Ireland in 2023.

As part of the expansion, Jamaica Blue is currently engaging with landlords to secure “prime” locations. At present, the company currently boasts over 170 locations across seven countries.

Josh Nixon, head of estates for Jamaica Blue UK, said: “Jamaica Blue’s foundations are built on two simple beliefs that guide us in everything that we do. Firstly, a belief in sourcing the very best coffee, and secondly, only using fresh, premium ingredients to deliver contemporary café dishes with a fresh edge.

“We’re thrilled to be opening at Forestside and excited to share our high-quality coffee and delicious menu with foodies and shoppers visiting the centre.”

Darren Best, director at Savills who represented Forestside on the transaction, added: “We’re excited to welcome Jamaica Blue to Forestside, their first opening in Northern Ireland. Their award-winning coffee and extensive food offering is a great addition to the dining options in the centre and we’re confident it will be a popular choice for shoppers.”