Residency at Hackney Wick
Supporting Emerging Food & Beverage Brands
The Saint Espresso Residency Program is about opening doors—providing opportunities for emerging bakers and F&B brands to grow in London within a supportive environment. Just as we would have wanted when starting out, we’ve created a space for bakers and independent makers to showcase their craft, connect with new audiences, and refine their business in a real-world setting. Our cafés serve as platforms for innovation, where collaboration and shared learning are at the heart of the experience. That’s why we launched Residency at our Hackney Wick coffee Bar & Roastery — a space designed to help small businesses grow without the stresses and committed long-term costs of a permanent location.
The Residency provides a space, and a guaranteed customer network for emerging talent within the F&B industry to grow without the commitment or costs of a permanent space whilst they build their audience, grow their brand and perfect their product. In addition, brands participating in the residency program will receive support and strategic direction from an established business team and the owner - Leon Zadeh, founder of Saint Espresso. Saint Espresso has been built from a single shop into a thriving London coffee brand. Having experienced the challenges of scaling an F&B business firsthand, Leon is passionate about supporting others on their journey and helping them navigate a bleak economic outlook and competitive business environment successfully.
Success Story: Roll Boys
Out latest 2024 Residency partner, Roll Boys, brought their incredible rolls to Hackney Wick and quickly gained a loyal following. Due to the success and demand, their Residency has been extended, proving the impact of this initiative in helping brands grow and establish a strong customer base.
Want to Be the Next Resident?
We’re always looking for exciting, up-and-coming food and drink brands to take over our Residency space next. If you have a concept you’d love to bring to life, get in touch to learn more about the opportunity. Apply here
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Key Benefits of the Residency Program
Prime Location & Customer Base Without Long-Term Commitment
• Access to a fully equipped commercial kitchen and front-of-house space in the heart of Hackney Wick.
• A chance to test menus, refine offerings, and build a customer base without the financial burden of leasing a space.
• Access to a guaranteed customer base.
Entrepreneurial Mentorship & Business Support
• Personal guidance from Leon Zadeh, founder of Saint Espresso, who has successfully grown the brand from a single café into a multi-location coffee and roastery business.
• Insight into brand positioning, operations, cost management, supplier relationships, and long-term growth strategies.
Operational Assistance
• Use of professional coffee and food preparation equipment, including till systems and transaction processing support.
• Saint Espresso’s experienced team will handle sales transactions, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
Marketing & Brand Exposure
• Inclusion in Saint Espresso’s social media and marketing channels, reaching a loyal customer base across London.
• Brand features in Saint Espresso’s promotional materials, newsletters, and in-store branding.
Customer Engagement & Market Testing
• Direct access to a vibrant local community and customer base in Hackney Wick.
• A chance to gather real-time feedback on products and services, allowing for quick adaptation and improvement.
Cost-Effective Entry into the Industry with investment available
• No need for large upfront capital investments in setting up an independent café or food stall.