Bob & Berts wins top award for equity backed business
Independent coffee and food chain Bob & Berts has won the top honour at the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA) Vision 2023 awards.
Announced at the Merchant Hotel in Belfast on June 29, the award recognises the management team of a private equity backed company that exemplify competitiveness, growth, innovation and ESG commitment and progress.
Judges praised Bob & Berts as “a real Northern Ireland success story” for its impressive growth in a crowded market, whilst remaining “true to the values of supporting community, family and its staff.” Particular attention was drawn to the business’s continued expansion during the pandemic, whilst the hospitality industry was facing enormous challenges.
Bob & Berts has also been rewarded for its strong vision and agility, pivoting its food offering to cope with inflationary pressures on margins and embracing new technology with the installation of smart menu boards, enabling changes to be made quickly and uniformly across the brand.
As the winner of the Northern Ireland title, Bob & Berts will be included in the BVCA national list, which will be announced at a Gala Dinner in November.
Backed by BGF, one of the UK’s most active growth capital investors, since 2017, the company now has 27 stores, with 14 in Northern Ireland, six stores in Scotland, and seven in England. It employs close to 800 staff across the UK.
Colin McClean, Founder of Bob & Berts, said: “We posted record results in 2022, opening new stores in Scotland and England, and we are well on our way to our long-term goal of 70 stores. Our offering of quality coffee and food in a relaxed atmosphere has resonated with our customer base in local communities and the stores are performing exceptionally well.”
Co-owner David Ferguson added: “It is great to be recognised on a national level for the work that our team has put into growing Bob & Berts over the past year. Taking on equity investment when we did was integral to the growth we have achieved so far, both in terms of capital and expertise. Access to BGF’s advice and network has also helped us build a strong, experienced management team that has allowed us to expand our business.”
