96 Degrees in Cowbridge

A new independent coffee shop has opened at Old Mason’s Yard in Cowbridge aimed at bringing people together in an environment that encourages people to switch off and socialise. The owners of 96 Degrees Speciality Coffee have taken a lease of 1,570 sq ft on the ground floor in Old Mason’s Yard, which is situated along the river Thaw in a prominent position facing Town Hall car park.

Cooke & Arkwright’s Retail & Leisure agency let the property to 96 Degrees on behalf of the landlord, S Andrews & Sons (Pwllheli) Limited. The firm’s Property Management team also manages the scheme on behalf of the owners.

Local businessmen John Howe and Lee Davies launched 96 Degrees as a joint venture to fulfil a long-held ambition to open a speciality coffee business. John has extensive commercial experience and works in business development across Europe for a global operation. Lee has a professional barista diploma as well as 17 years’ experience running a local, food-led public house.

John said, “We both have a real passion for well crafted coffee and providing people with a special environment that friends, colleagues and family can feel completely relaxed in. Wifi is limited to one hour and you won’t find sockets next to each table. It’s not intended to be an office away from home, more as a place to switch off.

“When we saw the space in Old Mason’s Yard we knew it would be a great location for us. It’s right in the town centre, but in a quiet spot just off the high street and accessed via a pretty river walk and footbridge. We’re delighted to be open in Cowbridge.”

Sarah Smith of S Andrews and Sons said, “We are delighted to welcome 96 Degrees to our scheme. This new letting comes soon after interior designer store West Hampton took occupation of the refurbished unit fronting the high street. These new independent stores will make a valuable contribution to the offering of the market town of Cowbridge.”

Rhodri Walters, Surveyor with Cooke & Arkwright’s Retail & Leisure agency said, “96 Degrees is a welcome addition to the leisure offering in Cowbridge and will compliment the existing mix of independent retailers and restaurants in the scheme. Old Mason’s Yard offers a good location linking Town Hall car park with Cowbridge town centre and we have further opportunities currently available for independents looking for space in the town.”

96 Degrees sources its coffee from speciality coffee roasters, Clifton Coffee, which imports fine coffee beans from around the world. Croissants, cakes and fresh bread are sourced from local suppliers and used coffee grounds are sent to a local gardening centre. Local suppliers were also used for the fit-out and refurbishment.