We sat down with Christian, the owner of Host Coffee, an independent coffee shop in Clay Cross, to talk about why he opened the café and what makes it such a valued part of the local community.
Host Coffee opened in 2021, just after the Covid-19 pandemic, with the aim of enhancing the local coffee scene in Clay Cross. Having moved to the area around that time, Christian saw an opportunity to create a welcoming space that served great coffee while bringing people together. Since opening, Host Coffee has become a familiar and friendly spot for locals looking for quality coffee in a relaxed setting.
What sets Host Coffee apart from other small coffee shops is its focus on great customer service and strong local connections. Christian prides himself on working with local suppliers for produce wherever possible, ensuring quality while supporting other independent businesses. Building genuine relationships with customers and being part of the Clay Cross community is at the heart of everything Host Coffee does.
For Christian, the most enjoyable part of running Host Coffee is the relaxed day-to-day atmosphere. With a close-knit team and an incredibly supportive customer base, the café offers a positive working environment where staff and customers alike feel at home. Being part of people’s daily routines, even in a small way, is something he values deeply.
When it comes to achievements, Christian believes simply still being here is the biggest one. Opening a hospitality business just after Covid came with huge challenges, from the energy crisis to the cost of living crisis. Through it all, Host Coffee has continued to grow, thanks to a strong team and loyal regulars who support the café week in, week out.
Published on
March 4th 2024