Glasgow-based graphic and interior design company Graven Images has launched the new Oxfam coffeehouse chain, Progreso.
The consultancy devised all branding for the new chain, which is a joint venture between Oxfam and coffee company Matthew Algie, and will sell fair trade coffee in support of coffee growers in the developing world.
The new company was launched earlier this month in London, when Graven Images transformed an Oxfam store in London into a prototype Progreso shop for 24 hours.
The company is now looking at a number of potential sites for its first permanent store, the graphics and interior design for which will be created by Graven Images. The sites being scouted are throughout Scotland and the South East of England, with both potential shops and concession partners being sought out. Progreso aims to have three outlets opened by the end of this year, with 20 planned for launch within the next three years.
Ross Hunter, director of Graven Images, said: “We’ve worked with Matthew Algie for several years now, starting in 1998 when we designed the Tinderbox in Glasgow.
“I think the thing that’s important about this is it’s a really credible coffeeshop that sells great coffee. Our brief is to make sure Progreso isn’t compromised by its social conscience – it has to be able to compete with the other companies on the high street but remain true to its values.”
Progreso has been founded by Oxfam and Matthew Algie. Oxfam owns 50 per cent of the company, with 25 per cent owned by three coffee-producer co-operatives in Honduras, Ethiopia and Indonesia. The remaining 25 per cent of shares is to be held in a trust.