Independent coffee store chain Bob & Berts is planning to open 30 new stores.
The chain, founded in Portstewart, will create in the region of 600 jobs – both full-time and part-time positions – as a result.
Funding has been secured from BGF, which invests in small and medium-sized enterprises, to the tune of £2 million, which will allow for this huge expansion.
The 30 new outlets will be earmarked at locations across Northern Ireland, as well as Scotland and the Republic.
Armagh I revealed in April that Bob & Berts was planning its first foray into County Armagh with an outlet at High Street Mall in Portadown, with plans for another at Cookstown.
Bob & Berts began life on the North Coast and has been a phenomenal success story.
In addition to coffee, it is well-known for its range of burgers and hotdogs, sandwiches, paninis, wraps and breakfasts.
It now has 16 outlets across Northern Ireland and hopes will be high that further openings could follow in both Counties Armagh and Down after news of this major investment and growth plan.
