A DESERTED section of a mill warehouse in Delph has been brought back to life to house a unique and eye-catching coffee and wine specialist shop.
Brian Hockenhull spent two months transforming the unit at Saddleworth Business Park before throwing open the doors of new venture ‘Toast’ last month.
Now, the warm aromas of roasting coffee beans welcome customers into the freshly painted shop, which is stacked from floor to ceiling with mouth-watering stock.
More than 30 types of coffees from across the world are on sale along with an array of teas and infusions to charm the tastebuds.
And there is an extensive wine warehouse with a host of bottles each costing under £10 recommended and supplied by Saddleworth Wine Vault and Winos.
Brian is also selling a range of exquisite chocolates, fresh breads and organic fruit and vegetables, and high quality flavoured olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
He explained the main ethos behind ‘Toast’ – which he used to run at Buckley’s Yard in Uppermill – is to helpproducers at the bottom of the ladder.
“In Ethiopia coffee farmers get 1pence for beans that go into making one cup of coffee and only 20 per cent of that goes to them,” explained Brian, who also runs ‘Coffee-under-Lyne’ in Ashton.
“I make sure the co-ops I buy beans from are helping to give the children an education, provide medical facilities and homes.
“That is why I only charge £1 for a takeaway coffee as for me it’s not about making a lot of money but doing things the right way to help others.”
Alongside his products,, plans are in the pipeline to put on wine and coffee tasting events and host parties catered by Kerri Roberts of Something Yummy Cakes and Catering.
Ambitious Brian is also in the process of opening outlets in Durham and Altrincham as well as taking his business online.
He said: “It is a little bit hidden out of the way here but we have a lot to offer.
“It’s a great place for parties and meetings and I’ve got three bookings already.
“It’s also perfect for walkers or cyclists who want to stop off, as well as theatregoers if they want a quick drink before a show at the Millgate.”
He added: “Biz Space have been very helpful and accommodating and I am very pleased with their service.”
Visit ‘Toast’ at Saddleworth Business Park (near reception) or call them on 01457 820270. They are open 9am-9pm Monday to Saturday and on Sunday mornings.
Find out more and buy Brian’s products online: www.thethirdwavecoffee.co.uk
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