New drive-thru won’t Costa us our business
Coffee chain expansion is no threat, says cafe manager
Costa Coffee has outlined plans to open a new drivethru in Paisley.
The firm has applied to open its second branch in the town at the Phoenix Retail Park.
Bulldozers will clear the former Ashoka Cook School restaurant to make way for the cafe.
Starbucks has already unveiled proposals to open on Renfrew Road.
Melanie Ward is assistant manager at independent town centre coffee shop Blend and says she is not afraid of competition.
She said: “I don’t think big chains opening here is going to make too much of a difference to us.
“We’re much more focused on the experience of coming in than the get-in-get-out culture they breed.
“Starbucks started the trend of putting customers’ names on cups.
“But we’re just as interested in finding out their stories, not just what they’re called.
“The chains focus so much on getting people in and out as fast as they can.
“We want to get to know people and give them space to relax and take some time out.
“It’s great to add something new to the town, but it’s all about local business for us.”
Costa Coffee is the latest to announce expansion into Renfrewshire.
Taco Bell and Bella Italia have already announced plans to move to the Phoenix retail park.
Tim Hortons has also linedup a move into the nearby St James’ Business Centre – the last remaining part of the Rootes car factory in Linwood.
It would be its only drive-thru branch in Europe.
The Canadian company wants to open on a new development on the site of a former bowling alley on Wallneuk Road.
I don’t think big chains opening is going to make a difference to us Melanie Ward
Dozens of jobs will be created by the outlets.
Bakery chain Greggs has also outlined plans to revamp its branch in The Paisley Centre.
Bosses have applied to transform the takeaway into a cafe.
The shop will be renovated, with a seating area for diners.
Costa Coffee bosses will be notified of the planning decision in the coming weeks.