Scottish-based Starbucks operator OCO is set to invest £4m to expand its footprint across Scotland and the North of England, a move expected to create 120 new jobs.

The business, which currently operates 23 Starbucks stores, plans to grow its estate to 29 locations by the end of 2027. The majority of these new sites will be drive-thru formats, creating a range of roles from store-level baristas and supervisors to head office support staff.

This expansion follows a period of significant growth for the firm, which has recorded 12 consecutive years of rising sales. The company currently employs approximately 480 people and was recently named as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work.

The operator attributes its staff retention and growth to a focus on career development rather than transient employment. Last year, 83% of internal promotions were filled by existing staff, with 71 individuals progressing into new roles. Furthermore, over half (54%) of the company's workforce have achieved the "Coffee Master" qualification, an advanced training programme offered by the franchise.

JJ O’Hara, who founded OCO after opening his first franchise in Dumfries in 2013, highlighted the company’s decision to voluntarily pay all baristas the Real Living Wage of £13.45 per hour, regardless of age; a policy that remains uncommon in the broader hospitality sector.

“For me, integrity works both ways.” O’Hara said. “Paying a fair wage, investing in proper training for our teams and giving people the right conditions to thrive - that’s what builds a great culture.”

He added: “When you get that right, our partners take more pride in their work, they deliver a higher standard for customers and ultimately enjoy what they do. It’s a win-win.”