Our Story

While most coffee shops use their five senses to cultivate the perfect experience, we use a sixth sense...our heart.

It all started with my
best friend Dylan...

I grew up with Labradors and they’ve always brought such a special warmth and positive energy to our home. My father had an incredible bond with Dylan my Fox Red Lab and after he passed away, I had a chance to reflect on what really matters to me. I realised its warmth and love – that’s what brings me happiness. The Labs in my life have provided this. They always know when I’m down, and always provided so much support.

When I started this, it wasn’t to just build a coffee brand. It started as an introspection on what really matters to me. And grew from there.

I thought, what if we could create a space where we could welcome dogs with open arms? They are family members after all. Not a dog café as such, but beautiful, open venues; a focal point of leafy neighbourhoods where family and friends could come together without having to leave their canine companions at home

And then I asked myself what is it that makes Labradors so special? I jotted down all their magnificent virtues and we developed our Magnificent 7 which we try to emulate. Every day we try to be Fun, Kind, Loyal, Likeable, Determined, Dependable and Trustworthy.

And then I thought what if we could make a real difference? So we developed a social mission. To help Guide Dogs for the Blind. While Labradors have given me tremendous joy, I am mindful of how they can literally be saviours to people where they need it most. So we raise money and awareness for this fabulous cause.

Now I love coffee. As much as my Labs. I love the taste, the history and the passion behind every cup. But what I love most is the way it can bring people together. A coffee shop provides a wonderful gathering place. A place to relax and savour one of life’s little pleasures. I think the key to happiness is to be in the moment. So when I think about Coffi Lab I don’t see it as just a coffee shop. Enhancing the local community is very important to me. And being able to share all this with your loyal, four-legged best friend is fabulous.

So ultimately Dylan, my beautiful best friend, was the inspiration behind Coffi Lab. We sadly lost our kind, gentle boy in July 2023. He was one of a kind with huge eyes and an even bigger heart. He left a huge hole in our hearts and lives, but he will live on through Coffi Lab and will continue to be our guiding light to keep turning the ordinary into extraordinary.

All day. Every day.

James Shapland, Founder

Our Roast in Tribute to Dylan

Blackberry

Fruitcake

Plum

Silver Lab

Limited Edition

|

From £16.00

The Journey so Far