31 Aug Caffè Nero’s First-Ever Drive-Thru
Bedrock Designs, a premier commercial interior design agency, proudly announces the completion of its latest project: the first-ever Caffè Nero drive-thru at London Stansted Airport. This groundbreaking project marks a new chapter in Caffè Nero’s global expansion, setting a standard for future drive-thru locations worldwide.
Located just 500 yards from the main terminal building on the primary road into and out of Stansted Airport, the new 1,200-square-foot store is a striking fusion of convenience and premium experience. Designed as a “drive-to” destination, the store provides easy access for both airport travellers and local customers, ensuring a seamless coffee experience whether on the go or looking to relax.
A Pioneering Concept for Caffè Nero’s Future Drive-Thru Stores
The store, built for £1.2 million, is a prototype that will serve as the blueprint for Caffè Nero’s future drive-thru expansions. Unlike traditional drive-thrus, this location features elegant seating areas, warm wood accents, and sophisticated lighting that create an inviting atmosphere for guests who choose to dine in. A carefully curated deli menu complements Caffè Nero’s renowned coffee offerings, making the store a great destination for food and drink.
Gerry Ford, Founder and Group CEO of Caffè Nero expressed his excitement about this new venture: “I’m delighted that we are opening our first drive-thru store in the world. Our partnership with Stansted Airport allowed us to achieve a location and format where we could offer a premium experience, combined with the convenience you would look for in a drive-thru. This store is an experiment for us, and we believe it will become the template for our future drive-thru locations.”
Designing a Unique Customer Experience
Bedrock Designs was tasked with creating a bespoke environment that aligns with Caffè Nero’s brand values while meeting the unique needs of a drive-thru format. The agency focused on blending the warmth and comfort of a traditional Caffè Nero café with the functionality of a modern drive-thru.
The interior is characterised by cosy wood accents, plush seating arrangements, and strategically placed lighting that enhances the welcoming ambience, day or night. This 24-hour operation ensures that travellers, airport staff, and local residents can access Caffè Nero’s offerings anytime, establishing the store as a convenient stopover on any journey.
“We wanted to create a space that not only serves as a functional drive-thru but also provides a memorable and comfortable experience,” says a spokesperson for Bedrock Designs. “Our approach was to blend premium materials with practical design elements, creating a prototype that Caffè Nero can replicate at future locations worldwide.”
A Bold Step in a Growing Market
The launch of Caffè Nero’s first drive-thru comes at a time when the UK drive-thru market is experiencing significant growth. According to World Coffee Portal research, the number of drive-thru coffee locations in the UK grew by 105 stores last year, reaching 801 sites. Caffè Nero’s entry into this space aims to carve out a niche for a more refined and customer-focused experience, distinguishing it from competitors like Costa Coffee, Starbucks, and Tim Hortons.
With over 620 stores across the UK, Caffè Nero is the fourth-largest coffee chain in the country and is now positioning itself to capture a share of the growing drive-thru market. The Stansted Airport location is the first of what is expected to be many more, with plans to expand the drive-thru format globally.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Coffee on the Go
Bedrock Designs is proud to have played a pivotal role in this innovative project, collaborating closely with Caffè Nero to bring their vision to life. As Caffè Nero looks to expand its store format, the Stansted drive-thru sets the stage for future developments, promising a unique blend of convenience and quality for coffee lovers worldwide.
For more information on Bedrock Designs and its portfolio of innovative commercial interior projects, visit bedrockdesigns.com.