Introducing the University of Warwick
The University of Warwick is one of the UK’s most forward-thinking institutions, renowned for innovation, sustainability, and student experience. With a vibrant campus community and a growing demand for high-quality coffee, Warwick’s Food and Beverage team set out to elevate their entire coffee programme — not just at one café, but across their estate.
Bridge Coffee Roasters partnered with Warwick Food Group as a full-service coffee supplier and consultant, helping the university modernise its café operations, improve consistency, and deliver a coffee experience that rivals the high street.
New Café Project - Coffee Lab
In September 2025, The University launched Coffee Lab, a brand new coffee experience inside the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research Building. We partnered with the Food Group once again to aid in the creation of an independent high street coffee shop, right inside the brand new university building.
A Triple Certified Coffee: Roots Botanical
Warwick selected Roots Botanical for its smooth, fruit-forward profile: a delicious specialty blend that suits the tastes of young coffee drinkers across campus.
Its triple certification (Fairtrade, Organic, and Rainforest Alliance) was equally important, aligning with the university’s sustainability commitments and resonating with students who actively seek out ethical, environmentally responsible choices.
The University also serves our Roots Decaf coffee for a non-caffeinated alternative to Botanical.
A Partnership Built on Collaboration
Bridge Coffee Roasters worked closely with the Warwick Food Group to create a unified coffee programme that could be adapted to each site’s needs.
1. Equipment Consultation and Installation
We began by analysing workflows and customer flow at key cafés, such as Gibbet Hill and Coffee Lab inside the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research Building (IBRB). From there, we implemented tailored solutions using equipment known for speed, consistency, and reliability.
These systems reduced queue times by up to half, improved quality control, and created smoother, more efficient bar workflows.
2. Training and Skill Development
We provided hands-on barista training to Warwick’s café teams — focusing on consistent espresso extraction, milk texturing, workflow efficiency, and customer interaction. This ensured staff confidence, shorter training times, and a consistently high level of coffee service across all sites.
3. Coffee Supply and Sustainability
Warwick serves our Roots Botanical blend, a versatile, ethically sourced espresso chosen for its bright, balanced profile and reliability in high-volume environments. We continue to supply fresh roasted coffee and offer ongoing guidance on sustainable practices — from bean sourcing to waste reduction and energy-efficient brewing.
4. Brand and Experience Development
With new cafés like Coffee Lab, we helped the Food Group design a modern, high-street-inspired coffee brand that fits Warwick’s contemporary spaces. Every detail, from layout and lighting to coffee presentation, contributes to a cohesive, on-brand experience for students and visitors.
5. Ongoing Support and Account Management
Our partnership doesn’t end after installation. Regular visits from Bridge account managers ensure equipment is maintained, quality checks are carried out, and new opportunities are explored to further enhance Warwick’s offering.
An Equipment Solution Designed to Reduce Wait Times and Boost Quality
The Results?
Consistency Across the Estate
Every Warwick café now delivers a coffee experience that’s consistent in quality, flavour, and presentation, no matter who’s making it or where on campus it’s served.
Faster, Smarter Workflows
Improved layouts and semi-automated tools have dramatically reduced wait times, even during peak lecture breaks.
Empowered Teams
Baristas are more confident and better supported thanks to ongoing training and responsive technical support.
A Recognisable Coffee Experience
From Gibbet Hill to Coffee Lab, Warwick’s coffee experience now feels unified — modern, efficient, and reflective of the university’s forward-thinking ethos.
Sustainable Growth
With energy-efficient machines, reduced milk waste, and recyclable packaging, the university continues to progress toward its sustainability goals.
