North Wales entrepreneur Fidelma Davies successfully launched 2 coffee shops in Wrexham and Holywell following advice and guidance from a Business Wales Relationship Manager as well as further support with HR and specialist workshops.
- successfully launched 2 coffee shops in North Wales
- 7 jobs created
- increased turnover since launch
Introduction to business
Soon after the successful launch of her first coffee shop in Carlton Garden Centre near Wrexham, Fidelma Davies was presented with an opportunity to open a new business in Holywell – where her original idea was born.
Launched in April and August 2019 respectively, both Betty Berkins coffee shops offer a range of teas, coffees and cakes, as well as a selection of breakfast and lunch offerings, available to eat in or take away.
Why did you decide to set up your own business?
I have always wanted to set up my own business and the dream has always been to have my own coffee shop. I wanted to create a lovely place, which was cosy for customers but served great coffee and cake with a friendly service.
My motivation for Betty Berkins came from my mum, Betty, whose nickname growing up was Betty Berkins. She always loved making brews and you could never avoid having a cuppa with her when you popped round. Unfortunately, we lost her a few of years ago, but I know that she will be proud of what I have achieved and opening the coffee shop in her memory – serving everything she loved.
What challenges did you face?
One of my biggest challenges was having to start from scratch with the coffee shop on Llay Industrial Estate. Before we moved in, it was a lawnmower shed so it has had quite a transformation! My next challenge was making us visible to the local community and businesses, which is something we are still working hard on but cannot thank our customers enough for helping to spread the word.
We have recently opened the second Betty Berkins Coffee Shop at The Glasdir in Pentre Halkyn. Opening a second shop in such a short period of time has come with its own challenges but we have had some great feedback so far which is what keeps me motivated. I pride myself on providing the best quality, local produce and coffee where I can, and want to employ people who have the same passion that I do.
Business Wales support
Having received start-up support from the Welsh Government’s Business Wales service for her first venture, Fidelma got in touch with the team as she had some concerns about the new business opportunity.
Relationship Manager Svetlana Ross helped with the cashflow forecasts for the coffee shops to help Fidelma understand the costs and sales required to increase turnover.
Svetlana provided further support on time management, networking, upskilling staff and social media marketing, which led to increased turnover and improved margins.
Fidelma also benefitted from Business Wales’ specialist HR adviser Lowri Dundee, who assisted with recruitment issues, contracts of employment, inductions and registering with HMRC. She has also been matched with a volunteer business mentor to guide her as she looks to further grow both businesses.
Outcomes
- 2 successful businesses launched
- HR support with recruitment
- 7 jobs
Business Wales have been brilliant throughout my experience of opening two coffee shops in the last six months. The free business support, advice and courses have been invaluable, and I couldn’t recommend them enough for anyone who is looking to set up a new business. Thank you for all your help and support!
Future plans and ambitions
My future plans are to grow both Betty Berkins coffee shops and to ensure we are known for fabulous coffee and cakes. It’s a really exciting time for us and opening another coffee shop has gone beyond what I ever dreamed of doing. I am working hard to keep up with customer demand and to mould our coffee shops into a place that caters and appeals to everyone.
If you want to read more success stories of how Business Wales has helped other people like you to start or grow their businesses, visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/case-studies or follow @_businesswales / @_busnescymru on Twitter.