Pub coffee concepts hot up

Oakman Inns is to launch a concept to help the company rival major coffee shop chains.

The five-strong operator is introducing a designated coffee barista area, which will be created at the end of the bar to look like a self-contained coffee shop.

The Kings Arms in Berkhamsted, Herts, will trial the concept from the beginning of April. If successful there are plans to roll it out across four other sites.

Oakman Inns chief executive Peter Borg-Neal said: "We are going to ramp up our coffee offer and intend to rival the coffee-shop chains. When we look at the competition, it is not just about the next pub restaurant but about the next Costa Coffee."

The firm will be handing out complimentary coffee vouchers around Berkhamsted as well as advertising with a large banner on the town's high street. Coffee served at all Oakman Inns venues is now Fairtrade.

The operator's Akeman in Tring, Herts, was a finalist in the All-Day Dining Pub of the Year in the Great British Pub Food Awards 2011.

The company's new Marlborough Hotel in Witney, Oxfordshire, is being refurbished this spring.

Punch Taverns' brand Wacky Warehouse is also boosting its hot drinks offer to help increase visits and dwell times by both adults and children.

The Coffee Corner concept, which is a relaxed area for adults to meet while keeping an eye on their children, will see its menu upgraded. From May, it will extend its current hot drinks and cakes menu to include a range of light bites and snacks.

The chain is also revamping the kids' party offer. It will introduce a buffet operation with a range of healthier options such as sandwiches and crudités alongside traditional options. It currently offers boxed meals including chicken nuggets and chips.

As part of the revamp it is to launch its own birthday cakes and selection of platters to host parents at the parties.