First look: Leith coffee shop opens in Waverley Mall

Independent Leith coffee connoisseurs Williams & Johnson have ventured into the city centre bringing a fresh roast flavour to Waverley Mall.
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Jul 2018, 16:21 BST
Updated 26th Jul 2018, 17:27 BST

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Jacquelyn Stewart (Waverley Mall Centre Manager), Gunnar Groves Raines (GRAS) , Daryll Bunce (Hare & Store), Zach Williams (Williams & Johnson) new independent coffee shop Williams and Johnson Coffee Co. opens at the top of Waverly Mall its the first one outside of Leith. Pic: Lisa Ferguson.Jacquelyn Stewart (Waverley Mall Centre Manager), Gunnar Groves Raines (GRAS) , Daryll Bunce (Hare & Store), Zach Williams (Williams & Johnson) new independent coffee shop Williams and Johnson Coffee Co. opens at the top of Waverly Mall its the first one outside of Leith. Pic: Lisa Ferguson.
Jacquelyn Stewart (Waverley Mall Centre Manager), Gunnar Groves Raines (GRAS) , Daryll Bunce (Hare & Store), Zach Williams (Williams & Johnson) new independent coffee shop Williams and Johnson Coffee Co. opens at the top of Waverly Mall its the first one outside of Leith. Pic: Lisa Ferguson.

The arrival signals a shift change in the future of the mall after new plans were announced last month for an ambitious revamp of the shopping centre including a new entrance, rooftop gardens and a new level with space for a restaurant with views across the gardens.

Moorgarth, asset manager for the owner of the mall has submitted proposals for substantial investment which they hope will revitalise the tired 1980s shopping centre and show a commitment to bring local talent to the current retail options at the mall.

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Coffee fanatics Zach Williams and Todd Johnson, Williams & Johnson burst onto Leith’s coffee scene with their flagship café based at Custom Lane in 2016.

Williams and Johnson Coffee Co. opens at the top of Waverly Mall.Williams and Johnson Coffee Co. opens at the top of Waverly Mall.
Williams and Johnson Coffee Co. opens at the top of Waverly Mall.

They said: “The opportunity presented by Waverley Mall was one not to be missed. The location is perfect, right in the heart of Edinburgh – ideal to reach new customers who share our passion for great coffee and are looking for something that little bit unique and special.”

Williams & Johnson is now open and can be accessed via the Princes Street entrance to Waverley Mall, adjacent to The Balmoral.

Mall owner’s Moorgarth said it is the start of “significant changes” to both the internal and external of the building, expected to take place in the next few months.

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A new market-style piazza is planned for the roofspace, with the interior set to undergo a major overhaul to give a new fresh and modern look.

Williams and Johnson Coffee Co.Williams and Johnson Coffee Co.
Williams and Johnson Coffee Co.

Waverley Mall centre manager, Jacquelyn Stewart, said: “Having Williams & Johnson Coffee Co. on board sees the start of very exciting times for Waverley Mall.

“There are some incredible local businesses in Edinburgh so it was important for us to bring this unique local talent to the centre.

“This is something you will see a lot more of as we continue to evolve and showcase all things Edinburgh.”

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Daryll Bunce from Hare & Store who acted on behalf of the mall’s owners Moorgarth, added:“By bringing an independent Edinburgh retailer to the centre of city’s shopping scene, Waverley Mall is making a real statement.

“A strong mix of relevant brands that create an authentic shopping experience is the future of retail and I have no doubt that Williams & Johnson will be a great addition to not just the mall, but also this prominent central location.”

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