Haptik entrepreneur’s bravery clinches LCN gong

Haptik cafe owner Johnathan McBride is celebrating after clinching the LCN Entrepreneur of the Year at this year’s LCN Awards.

Johnny, who opened his first venue with his wife Rachel in Newtownards after being inspired by Melbourne’s cafe culture, has now added a second venue on the upper Newtownards Road.

Speaking about expending despite the many challenges facing the industry, he said: “We have a solid, hardworking, passionate team across the two café locations.

“From customers, staff, suppliers, many of whom have become friends, our aim was to create an inclusive environment that encourages, strengthens and excites those around us. If we can do this along with earning a living selling coffee and brunch, we have set out what we wanted to achieve.”.

In choosing Johnny, judges commented: “The Entrepreneur of the year has demonstrated how their drive and optimism has fuelled a passion leading to the creation of a unique business which delivers an excellent product and experience.  This winner has used their culinary and business process to create an inclusive environment which encourages and strengthens both suppliers and customers.”

On collecting his gong, sponsored by FEB Chartered Accountants, he said: “This was very unexpected but to be recognised for all the hard we have done in building Haptik into the success it is today and then successfully opening another branch is wonderful. Hospitality is a hard business and can be 24/7 but you have to be brave and be prepared to commit to it.”