Coffee chain Starbucks has agreed to open a drive-through outlet at British Land’s St James retail park in Northampton.
The 1,800 sq ft drive-thru will open in early 2011. Other tenants on the park include Bhs, Next Home, Mothercare, Homesense and Laura Ashley.
It follows the opening of Caffè Nero’s first out-of-town location at Leamington Spa, the shopping park owned by the British Land-advised fund, Hercules Unit Trustm, and The Crown Estate.
Adele Reast Duggan, Starbucks’ director of property, said: “We’re delighted to be opening a Starbucks Drive Thru at such a prominent retail location in Northampton. St James Retail Park is the perfect location for a Starbucks Drive Thru to serve customers who want a coffee on the go but don’t wish to compromise on quality.”
“Additionally, the store will be built to a green building standard called LEED (and Breeam), which means, for example, up to 20% less energy and water usage.”
Ben Grose, head of retail asset management at British Land, added: “As the popularity of shopping and retail parks amongst ABC1-type consumers grows, catering becomes increasingly important. Good catering, from coffee operators to restaurants, extends a park’s appeal and helps to attract new retailers.”
Morgan Williams acted for British Land; Starbucks was not represented.
annabel.dixon@estatesgazette.com
