How To Make The Most Of National Picnic Week 2023

With summer officially getting under way in just a few days (on Wednesday, June 21st, to be precise) and National Picnic Week now upon us too, it's time to start making plans for that most British of summer traditions - going to a green open space to eat lunch outdoors, on a blanket!

But what constitutes the perfect picnic experience and how can you make sure yours is as enjoyable as possible? We take a look.

Food and drink

Food and drink is central to any picnic and the key thing to remember here is - keep it simple. Classic selections like sausage rolls, pork pies, Scotch eggs, sandwiches and pre-made salads should form the basis of your picnic - along with sweet treats like chocolate rolls or Viennese Whirls - as all are tasty, small, inexpensive and/or easy to make. 

They're also easily transportable in picnic baskets, tupperware boxes or Mason jars, all of which will also help keep spillages to a minimum.

Simplicity is key when it comes to drinks too. Don't be tempted to take multiple exotic ingredients so you can make your own cocktails; instead, stick to a small selection of cordials, plenty of water and a fizzy option like lemonade or ginger ale. Unless you know for sure the weather is going to be hot, it's worth taking a thermos or two of tea or hot chocolate as well.

If you want to take coffee with you on your picnic - and who wouldn't? - the best way to ensure you have a wide selection of barista-quality brews available is to contact your nearest Cafe2U van here and let us bring some straight to your blanket!

Keep an eye on the weather

Although the UK's weather is always susceptible to changing at the drop of a hat, there's no excuse for not checking the forecast in the lead up to your picnic so that you can at least try to plan accordingly.

If there's a chance of rain, take umbrellas and waterproofs; if it's going to be hot, don't forget the sunblock and wide-brimmed hats!

Take cushions and pillows

There's no need to lug heavy tables and chairs around on a picnic - simply chuck some throw pillows and old cushions in your car boot and you'll be able to fashion everyone a spot where they can relax comfortably in no time.

Don't forget utensils

Many picnics have come undone due to a lack of cutlery, so remember to take plenty of everything, including napkins. You could even take an old plant pot, vase, jug or small bucket to use as a practical utensil holder!

Remember to take a chopping board

Especially useful when kids are present, chopping boards are as great for cutting food on as they are for serving food off. Just remember to also pack wipes or paper towels so you can clean it afterwards!

Pick a good spot

Picnics should be relaxing so do some research before heading off and try to find a green location that has plenty of shade and isn't right next to a busy road. If you'll have kids with you, choosing somewhere with plenty of open space or that is close to a play area is a good idea too.

Clean up when you're finished

Nobody likes litter - or litterers - so take a couple of bin bags with you, chuck all your rubbish in them before you leave and place them in public bins or take them with you to dispose of when you get home.

No coffee, no picnic!

With the weather forecast for the coming days looking pretty positive at the time of writing, we imagine we'll be making plenty of trips to parks and fields across the UK over National Picnic Week. 

If you'd like us to take care of your picnic's coffee requirements, you can contact us here.

Coffee Gifts For Father's Day 2023

Ah, dads. Easy to please but difficult to buy for, mainly because they just buy themselves the things they want, when they want them. 

Even so, there's no reason to make him settle for a Father's Day gift you're pretty sure he won't actually like just because you forgot you needed to buy him a gift until you started reading this - we're here to inspire you with some of the best coffee-related gifts a dad could possibly want this Father's Day.

Camera lens coffee mug

If your dad has an artistic side and/or loves going for a good walk, he’ll appreciate the clever and functional design of this camera lens coffee thermos. 

Designed to be a replica of a classic Canon model EF 24-105mm camera lens, it holds as much as 11 fl oz ounces of his favourite brew and its stainless steel lining makes sure it stays hot for ages. Plus it really does look like an old fashioned camera lens, meaning it's a guaranteed conversation starter whenever he starts drinking out of it!

Java fire logs

Speaking of a good walk, this next idea is perfect for dads who love walking and/or hosting barbecues and bonfires which, we imagine, is roughly 99% of them.

Made from recycled coffee grounds, these special fire logs burn cleaner, hotter and for longer than traditional fire-fodder, making them a unique gift that any outdoorsy dad will love but won't see coming!

Single-Serve Capsule Coffee Machine

Looking to push the boat out for your old man this year? Look no further than this Nespresso Lattissima One Evo Automatic Coffee Maker by De'Longhi.

Not only is it an impressively stylish piece of kit, this compact coffee machine will let your dad make espresso macchiatos, cappuccinos and latte macchiatos at the touch of a button, thanks to its single-serve milk jug and one touch fresh milk system.

It also features a descaling alert and it's easy to clean too, with a removable water tank and dishwasher-safe milk jug. What's not to like?!

Plastic free French press coffee maker

No coffee-lover's kitchen is complete without a French press and this funky stainless steel and glass number is a must-have for any dad that doesn't already have one.

Ergonomically designed with a large glass handle to ensure a comfortable grip even when the container is full that will stop him burning himself on it, it also features a special knob to increase stability when plunging and a removable espresso maker filter for easy cleaning.

It makes excellent coffee too!

Coffee tasting book

If your dad really fancies himself as a connoisseur, he'll need to be able to identify the different flavours delivered by different coffees. Because it really is true - when a coffee claims to boast hints of chocolate or strawberry, they actually do, it can just be tricky to make them out over the taste of the coffee itself.

With the help of this 'How To Taste Coffee' book, he'll learn how to identify exactly what it is he's tasting, develop his palate and improve his ability to choose the sorts of coffee he's going to love in future.

Prepaid Cafe2U Card

If your dad is a regular Cafe2U customer, make his next few visits free by picking him up one of our prepaid gift cards. If you pre-pay for five coffees, you'll get the sixth one free!

Get in touch with your nearest Cafe2U barista here.

Happy Father's Day 2023 from Cafe2U!

Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there, we hope you all have a great day. And don't worry, our Cafe2U vans will be on the road as usual to help you celebrate if you need us!

Going Green For National Clean Air Day 2023

With air pollution responsible for as many as 36,000 deaths in the UK every year, it is the largest environmental health risk currently facing our country.

National Clean Air Day was created by environmental charity Global Action Plan to raise awareness of the issue among the general public. By encouraging everyone from local authorities and schools to businesses and community groups to organise their own events, Global Action Plan hopes to get the country talking about the seriousness of air pollution and the ways in which we can combat it.

At Cafe2U, we're proud to do our bit for the benefit of the environment. In fact, our aim is to become the UK's first carbon neutral coffee company. So what exactly are our green credentials? Read on to find out!

We're a digital franchise

One thing you won't find much of around Cafe2U HQ and our franchisees' vans is paper. Operations at our head office are completely digitised and we no longer offer traditional loyalty cards or physical pamphlets - we have our own app which allows our customers to receive news, offers and updates digitally instead. By using less paper, we're keeping more trees in the ground where they can help remove harmful pollutants from the atmosphere.

Our vans are electric

Yep, all electric and 100% emission-free, with lithium-ion batteries instead of diesel generators. Furthermore, our electric vans have minimal moving parts and more effective brakes, so fewer replacement parts need manufacturing, reducing our overall greenhouse gas emissions even further.

When we switched from petrol powered to electric vans, we significantly reduced our CO² emissions overnight, and we're determined to keep looking for more opportunities to reduce our company's emissions even more over the coming years.

We're big on recycling

All our franchisees offer their customers the opportunity to recycle their paper cups to slow the rate at which new disposable cups are produced.

They also provide a coffee grounds recycling service, which helps counteract the 1.8 million tonnes of carbon emissions which are generated by the 500,000 tonnes of coffee waste that is disposed of in the UK annually. The initiative sees waste coffee grounds being recycled into biofuel pellets to power biomass boilers, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping keep the air cleaner.

Oh, and all our food products come in 100% recyclable packaging too!

Tackle air pollution with Cafe2U

While it's great to see more and more people becoming aware of the issue of air pollution and trying to do something about it, a huge amount of work still needs to be done if the UK is going to eradicate the problem permanently. 

If you're interested in investing in a clean, 100% emission-free franchise like Cafe2U, click here to find out more.

How To Get Your Franchise Summer Ready

As the temperature rises and the days get longer, now is the perfect time for Cafe2U franchisees to gear up for a successful summer season. With people craving refreshing and energising beverages, this is the perfect opportunity to attract new customers and boost your sales. In this blog, we'll explore some essential tips and strategies to ensure your franchise is ready to thrive during the summer months.

Give your menu a summer twist

To cater to the summer crowd, it's important to introduce new and enticing offerings like iced coffees and frappés to your menu. Experiment with seasonal flavours, like strawberry, and don't forget to offer non-dairy milk alternatives to cater to a wider range of dietary preferences.

Invest in equipment and supplies

Ensure your van is equipped with the necessary tools to handle the increased demand for chilled drinks. Stocking up on cups, straws, napkins, and any other supplies you'll need to serve your customers efficiently during busy summer days is a must!

Enhance your outdoor setup

Make your van a destination for people seeking respite from the heat. Create an inviting and comfortable outdoor seating area with umbrellas or awnings to provide shade. Set up some tables, chairs and cosy seating options to encourage customers to relax and enjoy their drinks, as well as to attract passers-by.

Embrace social media

Leverage the power of social media platforms to promote your franchise during the summer. Share enticing photos and videos of your seasonal offerings and engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Run contests and offer special discounts or giveaways exclusively for your online followers to increase your online presence and drive foot-fall to your business.

Collaborate with local events and businesses

Summer is the season for festivals, concerts and outdoor gatherings, so why not partner with local event organisers or nearby businesses to establish collaborations? Not only will this increase your visibility, it will also provide an opportunity to connect with a broader customer base.

Offer mobile ordering

To cater to customers who demand convenience above anything else and help you tap into new markets, be sure to make the most of the mobile ordering options that are available through the Cafe2U app and online platform.

Here's to another successful summer!

Preparing your franchise for summer requires a combination of thoughtful planning and creativity but, by keeping your focus on providing exceptional customer experiences and staying ahead of the competition, there's no reason your mobile coffee business can't thrive over the splendid summer months ahead.

Top Bakes For National Vegetarian Week 2023

Designed to highlight to the wider public the benefits and pleasures of a meat-free diet, National Vegetarian Week has become one of the most eagerly anticipated awareness weeks of the year.

And that should really come as no surprise. Because vegetables are so versatile, they can be used in all kinds of recipes, both sweet and savoury and, as a result, National Vegetarian Week is now enjoyed by more people than ever, from lifelong veg fanatics to dyed-in-the-wool carnivores.

With that in mind, we've decided to share a few of our favourite veggie bakes for you to try at home. And, best of all, they all go great with a fresh brew!

Carrot cake porridge

No, that isn't a typo! Carrot cake, while delicious, is old news. Carrot cake porridge is the future!

Ingredients

To make three bowls of carrot cake porridge, you will need:

• 2 small carrots, peeled and grated

• 180g porridge oats

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• grating of fresh nutmeg

• 75g raisins

• 850ml milk

Simply put all the ingredients in a pan and cook over a medium heat for 10-15 mins, stirring often, until the oats and carrots are soft and the porridge is creamy. If your porridge looks too thick during cooking, add a little more milk. 

Serve hot with an espresso for a flavourful and fun way to start your day.

Potato and cheese muffins

This fabulous recipe is quick and easy to make and doubles as an excellent way to use up leftovers.

Ingredients

To make 12 muffins, you will need:

• 750g mashed potatoes

• one large egg

• 250g cheddar cheese, grated

• three tbsp chopped chives

Begin by making mashed potatoes using your preferred method. If you're new to the world of mash, this recipe is a great place to start (although you'll only need half the amount of potatoes for this muffin recipe). 

Next, preheat your oven to 190C/170C fan, then grease a non-stick muffin pan with a little butter.

Stir the mashed potatoes, egg, ¾ of the cheddar cheese and two tbsp chopped chives together in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then divide the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin pan, packing the potatoes down into each cup.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and crisp around the edges, then remove the pan from the oven, top the muffins with the remaining cheese and return to the oven for three more minutes. 

Once ready, allow the muffins to cool, then transfer to a serving dish, top with the remaining chives and serve immediately. Serve with a black coffee to perfectly complement the creaminess of the potatoes and cheese.

Courgette, lemon and thyme cake

This summer-y sensation is fragrant, light and well worth the effort!

Ingredients

To make a courgette, lemon and thyme cake, you will need: 

• 350g unsalted butter, softened at room temperature, plus extra for greasing

• 350g golden caster sugar

• zest 2 unwaxed lemons

• 6 large eggs

• 400g self-raising flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 4 courgettes (about 600g), coarsely grated

• 2 tbsp chopped thyme leaves

For the icing, you will need:

• 250g mascarpone

• 250g unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

• zest 2 unwaxed lemons

• 900g icing sugar

For the crystallised thyme, you will need: 

• 50g golden caster sugar

• 12 thyme sprigs (use a combination of thinner and thicker sprigs)

• 1 egg white, lightly beaten

For the candied lemon slices, you will need:

• 200g golden caster sugar

• 2 unwaxed lemons, thinly sliced into rounds

Begin by making the decorations. For the crystallised thyme, put the sugar on a plate, brush the thyme with the egg white, then roll in the sugar. Shake off some of the excess, then leave the sprigs on a piece of baking paper to dry.

For the candied lemon slices, tip the sugar into a saucepan with 200ml water. Heat gently to dissolve the sugar, then bring the syrup to the boil. Drop in the lemon slices and cook for 15 mins until softened. Carefully remove the slices from the syrup and place on a piece of baking paper to dry. Keep the remaining syrup for brushing over the cake.

Next, heat your oven to 180C/160 fan/gas 4. Grease and line the bases of two 20cm springform cake tins. Make the four sponges in two batches. To make the first batch, in a large bowl, use a whisk to beat 175g butter with 175g sugar and the zest of 1 lemon until creamy. Then, gently beat three of the eggs together in a jug. Gradually add the egg to the mixture, scraping down the side and whisking well after each addition. In a separate bowl, mix together 200g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt, and fold this into the cake mixture. Finally, stir in 300g courgette and 1 tbsp thyme leaves. Divide the mixture between the tins and bake for 25 mins.

While the sponges are still warm, prick all over with a skewer and brush over some of the reserved lemon syrup. Once cool enough to handle, remove from the tins and place on a wire rack. Make and cook the second batch of cakes using the remaining ingredients.

When the cakes are cool, make the icing. Whisk all the ingredients together with a pinch of salt until smooth and fluffy.

Next, sandwich the cakes together with a little of the icing. Using a palette knife, spread a thin layer of icing all around the cake and chill for 30 mins to set. Once chilled, completely cover the cake in a second layer of icing to achieve a smooth finish. Decorate with the crystallised thyme and candied lemon slices, then return to the fridge until the icing has completely set. 

Serve with a cappuccino or latte for the ultimate sweet, veg-fuelled elevenses treat!

Enjoy National Vegetarian Week with Cafe2U

We're committed food and drink fans at Cafe2U and these vegetable-based bakes are easily among our favourite snacks to enjoy with a cup of good coffee.

To make the most of National Vegetarian Week 2023 wherever you are, get in touch with your nearest Cafe2U van here and let us bring some of our top-quality coffee straight to your door.

How to Hold the Perfect Garden Party for the King's Coronation

On May 6th, the UK will come together to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and, to commemorate this momentous occasion, a series of celebrations have been organised across the country.

If you fancy hosting your own event, why not gather your friends, family and neighbours together for a Coronation celebration of your own? Here are our top tips for ensuring your celebration is a right royal success.

What to serve

The easiest way to ensure there's plenty of food to go round - and stop you having to spend all day in the kitchen - is to ask your guests to bring a dish. 

The most popular items for garden parties consist of traditional finger foods like quiches, sausage rolls, cucumber sandwiches and egg and cress rolls but let's face it, if it's tasty, somebody will eat it, so really anything goes.

If you're planning something more formal, potato salads, giant pork pies and classic Victoria sponges are the way to go. 

When it comes to drinks, nothing says 'royal celebration' like a jug of Pimms, packed full of fruit and fresh mint leaves. This recipe from BBC Good Food is a great place to start. 

Wine and champagne are also fool-proof options, while soft drinks should be provided for non-drinkers and anyone under 18. And with the UK's famously unpredictable weather, you'll definitely want to have a range of hot drinks ready to serve!

Seating

As the host, you'll need to provide seating and tables, so dust off any that have been sitting in your garage or shed and give them a good clean a few days before the event.

If you need more than you have, you can either ask your guests to bring their own or do a quick Google search for companies that hire out garden furniture in your area and arrange to borrow some for a day or two.

Decorations

Nothing gets people in the mood for a party like colourful decorations and accessories, so get creative by hanging bunting between trees and around tables, and attaching red, white and blue bows, balloons and ribbons to chairs. Union Jack flags are essential too!

You can also bring tables to life by decorating them with vases, jars or milk bottles filled with flowers picked from your and your guests' gardens.

It's also important to get the party started by having a sound system ready to play music; if possible, set up a TV so your guests can watch the Coronation taking place in real time too.

How Cafe2U can help

Whether you're hosting a Coronation garden party for dozens of people or a small do exclusively for your nearest and dearest, why not book one of our mobile cafés to come and handle the coffee-making duties for you?

Our baristas are trained to provide excellent customer service and to deliver the finest quality coffees. You can find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

Barista Tips: Things To Consider When Making A Latte

First of all, a disclaimer - if you want consistently great, coffee-shop quality lattes, you're going to have to pay your local barista a visit. The fact of the matter is that while teaching yourself how to make a decent latte at home is definitely worth the effort, it's unlikely to be better than one made by a qualified coffee professional.

But should you let that put you off learning how to make your own lattes? Definitely not. With our handy hints, you'll be enjoying delicious home-brewed lattes in no time.

How to make a latte

Ingredients

Although lattes are essentially just espressos with milk, making them well is easier said than done.

To make the perfect latte, you will need:

• a large mug

• 18g ground espresso (or one espresso pod)

• 250ml milk

Start by making around 35ml espresso, then pour it into your mug.

Next, steam the milk with the steamer attachment on your coffee machine until it has around 2-3cm of foam on top. Hold the jug so that the spout is about 3-4cm above the cup and pour the milk in steadily. As the amount of coffee within the cup increases, bring the jug as close to the surface of the drink as possible. Aim to pour into the centre. 

Once the milk jug is almost touching the surface of the coffee, tilt to speed up the rate of pour. As you accelerate, the milk will hit the back of the cup and start naturally folding in on itself to create a pattern on the top.

Once all the milk has been poured, your latte is ready to drink! We recommend serving it alongside breakfast, brunch, lunch… or a sweet treat at elevenses!

Latte2U

At Cafe2U, not only can we make an excellent latte, we can even bring it to your door, regardless of where you are. To arrange a delivery from your nearest van, click here.

Coffee Haikus2U

To celebrate International Haiku Poetry Day 2023, here's our attempt at some coffee and Cafe2U-related haiku poems. Can you do any better?

“Wake up to coffee,
Cafe2U brings the brew,
A perfect start too.

Rolling through the streets,
Cafe2U vans serve joy,
A sip of heaven.

Caffeine in the air,
Mobile coffee at your door,
Cafe2U’s here!

Coffee on the go,
Cafe2U brings the goods,
A sip, a smile, bliss.
”

— Cafe2U

Advice for Franchisees: How to Reduce Stress

Stress is a natural part of life and, as a franchisee, you may experience it more often than others. Being responsible for running your own business can be challenging, so it's essential to take care of your mental health - something that is particularly relevant during 2023’s Stress Awareness Month. 

In this blog post, we'll discuss some common issues that franchisees face and offer advice on how to overcome them.

Financial Pressure

One of the most common stressors for franchisees is financial pressure. Starting and running a business requires investment and it can take some time to see a return on that investment. To alleviate this stress, it's essential to create a realistic financial plan before you start your franchise. You should also regularly review your finances to ensure you're meeting your goals and making progress towards profitability. 

As a Cafe2U franchisee, you have the benefit of a proven business model, so you can have more confidence in your financial projections.

Time Management

As a franchisee, you're responsible for managing your time effectively to ensure that your business runs smoothly. This can be a challenge, as there are many tasks to juggle, from managing inventory to handling administrative tasks. 

To reduce stress, it's essential to prioritise your tasks and create a schedule that allows you to be productive without burning out. With Cafe2U, you can take advantage of our support services to help manage your workload, such as marketing and supply chain management.

Marketing and Sales

Marketing and sales are critical components of running a successful business. However, many franchisees find these tasks to be stressful, especially if they don't have experience in these areas. To reduce stress, Cafe2U offers every franchisee marketing support, which includes both online and offline marketing materials, social media management and promotional campaigns. This support can help you reach more customers and grow your business.

Final thoughts

Owning a Cafe2U franchise comes with many benefits, but it's essential to manage stress levels to ensure you're able to run your business successfully. By creating a realistic financial plan, managing your time effectively and taking advantage of Cafe2U's support services, you can reduce stress and run a successful business. 

So for Stress Awareness Month 2023, try to make prioritising your mental health and managing your stress levels your goal.

Best Easter Bakes 2023

If it's possible for a person to eat too much chocolate, Easter is probably the time it would happen. As much as we love chocolate at Cafe2U, the last thing we want is for anyone to make themselves poorly by overdoing it over the coming weekend so we've compiled a list of easy and delicious Easter bakes for you to try at home to bring some variety to your diet (don't worry, chocolate still features prominently!).

Better still, all these bakes go great with a cup of top-quality coffee so, without further ado, here are our top Easter 2023 bakes!

Easter Traybake

This Easter-themed traybake is a great option to make with kids and can be decorated with any Easter sweets and treats of your choosing!

Ingredients

To make an Easter traybake, you will need:

• 150ml sunflower oil, plus extra for the tin

• 165g golden caster sugar

• 2 eggs

• 150ml milk

• 165g self-raising flour

• 3 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the chocolate fudge icing, you will need: 

• 100g milk or dark chocolate, chopped (either a chocolate bar or Easter egg, broken up)

• 100g butter, softened

• 100g icing sugar

• 100g Easter treats (chocolate eggs, sweets etc)

Begin by heating your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4, then oil and line a traybake tin, about 20 x 30cm, and 5cm deep. 

Put the oil, sugar, eggs and milk in a bowl and whisk until well combined. Sieve over the flour, cocoa and bicarb, and stir briefly until combined. Pour the mixture into the tin and bake for 20-25 mins until the cake is well risen and springy. Leave to cool completely on a wire rack.

Next, melt the chocolate in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water - ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water - then leave to cool for a few minutes.

Finally, beat the butter and icing sugar together until pale and fluffy, then drizzle in the chocolate and beat again until smooth. Swirl the icing over the top of the cake, then decorate with the Easter treats to serve.

Carrot Patch Cake

Take a (short) break from chocolate with this tasty carrot cake. The Easter bunny would definitely approve!

Ingredients

To make Carrot Patch Cake, you will need:

• 175ml vegetable oil, plus extra for the tin

• 75g natural yoghurt

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 200g self-raising flour

• 250g light muscovado sugar

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ fresh nutmeg, finely grated

• 200g carrots (about three), grated

• 100g sultanas or raisins

• 100g pistachios, finely chopped

For the icing, you will need:

• 100g slightly salted butter, softened

• 200g icing sugar

• 100g full-fat cream cheese

• 100g fondant icing or marzipan

• orange food colouring

First, heat your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4, then oil and line a 900g loaf tin with parchment paper. Whisk the oil, yoghurt, eggs and vanilla in a jug. Then mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg with a good pinch of salt in a bowl. Squeeze any lumps of sugar through your fingers, shaking the bowl occasionally to bring the lumps to the surface.

Next, add the wet ingredients to the dry, along with the carrots, raisins and half the pistachios. Mix well to combine, then scrape into the tin. Bake for 1 hr 10 mins or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. If any wet mixture clings to the skewer, return to the oven for 5 mins, then check again. Leave to cool in the tin.

To make the icing, beat the butter and sugar together until smooth. Add half the cream cheese and beat again, then add the rest. Remove the cake from the tin and spread the icing thickly on top. Scatter with some of the remaining pistachios. Dye the fondant or marzipan orange by kneading in a drop of food colouring. Roll into little carrot shapes, arrange on top of the cake, then serve.

Easter Egg Cookies

Decadent and perfect for dunking, these seasonal cookies taste as good as they look!

Ingredients

To make 20 Easter Egg Cookies, you will need:

• 175g butter, softened

• 200g light brown soft sugar

• 100g golden caster sugar

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 large egg

• 250g plain flour

• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 50g white chocolate, chopped into chunks

• 100g bar dark chocolate, chopped into chunks

• 100g mini chocolate eggs, crushed

Start by heating your oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, then tip the butter, sugars and vanilla into a bowl. Beat with a whisk until pale and fluffy, then add the egg and beat again. Tip in the flour, bicarb and a pinch of salt, then use a spatula to mix together before adding the chocolate chunks and about half the crushed mini eggs. Mix again until everything is combined.

Next, scoop golf-ball-sized mounds of cookie dough onto the baking sheets, making sure you leave plenty of space between each one. Push the remaining mini egg pieces into the tops, then bake for 15-18 mins, swapping the sheets around halfway through. 

Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 10 mins before transferring to a wire rack, then bake the second batch.

Happy Easter from Cafe2U!

We hope all our customers have a happy Easter and a great bank holiday weekend. 

If you find yourself in need of some top quality coffee to accompany one of these bakes or some of your chocolate eggs, contact your local Cafe2U van here and we'll deliver some straight to your door!

Best Mother's Day Bakes 2023

Instead of buying your mum a present for Mother's Day this year, why not get creative and make her something instead?

Most mums love a sweet bite with their coffee so baking her a sugary treat is exactly the kind of surprise that's sure to be well received. We've chosen a few of our favourite recipes to share with you, all of which are guaranteed mum-pleasers. And best of all you can either bake them ahead of time or share some quality time with your mum by baking them together!

Presenting our Mother's Day 2023 bakes…

Caramel-drizzled banoffee bake

Part cheesecake, part traybake, all delicious! 

Ingredients

To make a caramel-drizzled banoffee bake, you will need:

For the base - 

• 175g unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for the tin

• 250g digestive biscuits, crushed to a fine powder

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the banana ripple - 

• 2 tbsp icing sugar

• 1 tbsp cocoa

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 3 medium bananas, chopped

For the filling - 

• 750g full-fat soft cheese

• 200g mascarpone

• 175g light brown soft sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla bean extract

• 3 eggs

• 2 1/2 tbsp plain flour

• 100g caramel

To serve - 

• 300ml double cream

• 2 tbsp caster sugar

• 2 tbsp caramel

• cocoa, for dusting

• large handful baked banana chips (optional)

First, butter and line the base and sides of a 23cm square loose-bottomed cake tin. Put the biscuit crumbs in a bowl with the butter, cinnamon and a small pinch of salt and mix until fine. Tip into the base of the tin, then level off and press the mixture down to compact it. Place in the fridge.

Next, heat the oven to 120C/100C fan/gas 1. Mix the icing sugar, cocoa and cinnamon in a bowl, then stir in the banana and set aside.

To make the filling, put the soft cheese, mascarpone, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs and flour in a bowl. Beat with a whisk until smooth, then gently fold in the banana mixture.

Remove the base from the fridge and pour over the filling, then drizzle the 100g caramel on top.

Bake for one hour, then leave inside the oven - with the door open - until cool. Once cooled, transfer to the fridge to chill overnight.

When ready to serve, make the sweet cream topping. Beat the cream and sugar in a bowl until it forms soft peaks. Remove the cheesecake from the tin and spread the cream over the top, drizzle with the 2 tbsp caramel, dust with cocoa and scatter with the banana chips. 

Lemon layer cake

A fancy take on a classic, this bake just screams 'Mother's Day'!

Ingredients

To make a lemon layer cake, you will need:

• 225g unsalted butter, softened

• 225g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 225g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 75g natural yogurt

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

• 3 lemons, zested

For the drizzle - 

• 150g granulated sugar

• 3 lemons, zest of 2 pared into strips, juiced

For the icing - 

• 150g unsalted butter, softened

• 150g icing sugar, sieved

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

• 300g full-fat soft cheese

Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and line the base of two 20cm sandwich tins with baking parchment. Beat the butter and sugar together for 3 mins until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well between each addition, then fold in the flour and baking powder until well incorporated, then the yogurt, vanilla and lemon zest. Divide between the tins and bake for 30-35 mins until golden.

Next, make the drizzle by tipping the sugar, lemon juice and 100ml water into a small pan set over a medium heat and stir until dissolved. Add the lemon zest, bring to the boil and simmer for 2-3 mins until the liquid is syrupy. Remove the zest to a sheet of baking parchment using a slotted spoon, then remove the syrup from the heat.

Once the sponges have cooled in the tins for at least 10 mins, pour over the warm drizzle and leave to cool.

For the icing, beat the butter and icing sugar together for 4-5 mins until smooth. Add the vanilla and soft cheese and beat for 4 mins more until thick and creamy.

Remove the cooled sponges from the tins. Spoon the icing into a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle and pipe just under half the icing around the edge of one of the sponges, using a circular motion for a wavy effect. Pipe a little more icing over the empty middle and smooth with the back of a spoon. Chill for one hour until set. Top with the second sponge, then pipe eight blobs of icing around the edge at regular intervals, leaving a gap between each. Spoon the candied lemon zest into each gap, then serve.

Raspberry ripple blondies

Your mum will love this combo of fresh, juicy raspberries and two types of irresistible chocolate!

Ingredients

To make 12 blondies, you will need:

• 150g raspberries

• 200g light brown soft sugar

• 225g unsalted butter, plus a little extra for the tin

• 100g caster sugar

• 200g plain flour

• ½ tsp baking powder

• 3 eggs

• 1tsp vanilla extract

• 125g dark chocolate, chopped into chunks

• 125g white chocolate, chopped into chunks

Place all but a handful of raspberries into a saucepan, along with 1 tsp brown sugar and 2 tsp water. Cook over a medium heat until the raspberries turn jammy. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

Next, melt the butter in a pan over a low-medium heat. Tip in both the sugars and cook until the mixture is bubbling and the sugars have dissolved. Remove from the heat and leave to cool for 10 mins.

Meanwhile, combine the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Butter a 20 x 30cm tin and line with baking paper. Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, add the eggs and vanilla, then mix well. Scatter over the dark and white chocolate chunks and fold to combine. Scrape the mixture into the prepared tin and level the surface. Dot over teaspoonfuls of the raspberry compote, then use a skewer to gently swirl it through the batter to create a marbled effect. Scatter over the reserved raspberries, then bake for 40-45 mins until set with a slightly gooey centre. Leave to cool completely in the tin, then cut into squares to serve.

Happy Mother's Day 2023 from Cafe2U!

At Cafe2U, we believe that one of the best ways of showing your love is through food and drink, and these Mother's Day bakes are sure to make your mum feel loved and appreciated, especially if you pair them with one of our top quality coffees!

Our vans will be on the road as usual over the weekend so get in touch here if you'd like some coffee delivering to you or your mum's door.

Cafe2U Conference 2023

Our favourite event of the year took place last weekend - the annual Cafe2U conference!

Held in the wonderful surroundings of Wyboston Lakes in Bedford, the theme of this year's conference was 'The Seven Habits Of A Successful Franchisee' and saw members of the Cafe2U management team delivering presentations and workshops to the 60+ franchisees in attendance to help ensure they have another successful year in 2023.

The seven aforementioned habits are:

• Be proactive

• Begin with the end in mind (have long-term vision)

• Put first things first

• Think win-win (mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers)

• Seek first to understand, then to be understood (inc social media)

• Synergise (creative cooperation)

• Sharpen the saw (practise, practise, practise)

Kicking off with an introductory speech from Franchise Development Manager Nick Sara and an overview of the UK coffee market from CEO Martyn Ward, Head of Coffee Standards Callum Ellis then gave a presentation about coffee quality and its importance to franchisees and customers.

A series of workshops were held in the afternoon and covered topics including the importance of forging strong relationships with suppliers, getting the most out of social media and how to improve your coffee making skills. Representing an invaluable opportunity for our franchisees to expand upon their already impressive knowledge, the workshops went down a storm, with every session getting a great turnout.

Concluding the day's work was a Q&A session with CEO Martyn and the Franchise Development Management team which gave the franchisees the opportunity to ask any questions that came to mind, and for the presenters to answer questions that had been submitted earlier in the day via a question box located on site.

As evening fell, it was time for dinner and an awards ceremony, as attention switched firmly from work to play. With amazing food to enjoy, awards up for grabs - including the coveted Franchise Partner of The Year award, which was picked up by Amanda and Steve Lawrence, who operate in Braintree - and four-piece rock band Twist of Rock providing the tunes, our franchisees had a great time celebrating and dancing the night away.

CEO Martyn Ward said: "As ever, the annual Cafe2U conference was a great success. As well as celebrating both the franchisees' and the business' achievements in 2022 - which was our best year ever for both sales and sales growth - the conference was also a great opportunity for the senior management team to share some knowledge and advice with the franchisees to help them succeed again in 2023.

"And, of course, it was also an excellent excuse to get together for a bit of fun and a few drinks, with many franchisees finally getting the chance to meet face-to-face for the first time ever! Needless to say, we're already counting the days until next year's event!"

Five Questions To Ask Yourself Before Investing In A Franchise

According to the most recent survey by the British Franchise Association, more than 700,000 people in the UK work in the franchising industry, with a staggering 93% returning a profit. Consequently, it's no surprise that, when thinking about a career change, many people weigh up the pros and cons of investing in a franchise themselves.

But with so many factors to consider when it comes to joining the franchising industry, how can you be sure that becoming a franchisee is the right decision for you? 

We've compiled the top five questions that every would-be franchisee should ask themselves.

Can you afford it?

Whatever type of franchise you find most appealing, investing in it will require you to find enough money to cover both start-up and ongoing costs, with the average cost of buying a franchise in the UK currently standing at approximately £15,000.

Before you begin trading, you'll need to pay an up-front franchise fee to the franchisor for the right to use its brand name, logo and business plan. It also usually covers training, support and marketing.

An ongoing fee will almost certainly be payable too, such as a management or royalty fee to continue trading under the franchisor's brand. This will either be a fixed monthly fee or a percentage of your profits. You may also be expected to make regular contributions for ongoing promotion and marketing activity and, if you're required to sell the franchisor's products, you will also need to buy inventory.

Depending on the nature of the franchise, you may also need enough working capital to pay suppliers, staff, rent, insurance and utilities - as well as your own cost of living - in the interim before your business becomes profitable.

Are you passionate about your chosen franchise?

If you're not 100% interested in the industry in which your chosen franchise specialises, walk away. Not only will your customers and clients quickly pick up on your lack of enthusiasm, resulting in reputational damage to your business, but you're also more likely to lose interest in it in the long-term, which could conceivably cost you a significant amount of money.

Conversely, if you invest in a franchise you're truly interested in, your energy and passion for it will naturally come through, resulting in you offering a better product or service to your customers.

While the predicted earnings and the work/life balance being offered by your chosen franchise are important factors to take into account, if they're the only things that interest you about it, it's time to think again.

Have you done your due diligence?

The only way to ascertain your new business' chances of success is to get out in the area in which you want to operate and do some market research. Does the local community have the right demographics for your business? Is it crying out for whatever you have to offer? Or are there already too many businesses offering the same services in the area? 

At this stage, being thorough and patient is vital, so resist the temptation to sign on the dotted line until you can answer these questions and more. The more time you invest before you buy a franchise, the better your return on investment is likely to be.

Do you have the right skill set?

Familiarise yourself with what day-to-day life as a franchisee in your chosen field entails and make sure you're confident you have the personality, lifestyle and skills to make a success of it if you decide to take the plunge. 

Ask yourself questions like: 

• can you deal with early starts and long days?

• Do you enjoy interacting with members of the public?

• Are you well organised?

• Can you handle any and all daily paperwork that may be involved?

• Will you be comfortable implementing the franchisor's procedures?

If you can honestly answer 'yes' to these sorts of questions, franchising could be a good fit for you. 

How will you spread the word about your new franchise?

You'll need to advertise your new business before it launches - to build interest - and once it has launched, to ensure people know that you're there and what you have to offer.

Establishing a social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are all advisable and you should also be prepared to put up posters, make and deliver flyers and advertise in local newspapers in order to promote your franchise too, especially if it isn't already a household name.

Cafe2U franchises are available

Not only are they available, they're one of the best franchise options for 2023. In addition to a top-of-the-range electric van and an exclusive area in which to operate, all our new franchisees receive all the training and equipment necessary to get their businesses off the ground. We also supply them with all the ongoing support and marketing advice they need too.

If you're interested in investing in a Cafe2U franchise, we can even assist in arranging finance for you. For more information, click here.

Pancake Day 2023: How To Make Pancake Art

Tuesday, February 21st, is Pancake Day, a sacred day for most Brits who celebrate their love for the fluffy, round treats by eating as many of them as possible.

An incredibly versatile snack, pancakes can be enjoyed sweet or savoury, big or small, open or rolled up. They can form the basis of a meal or be served after dinner as a dessert. To cut a long story short, they're brilliant.

As the origins of Pancake Day (or Shrove Tuesday, to give it its rightful name) can be traced all the way back to the 15th century, surely we know everything there is to know about pancakes by now? Well, maybe not. For there exists a phenomenon known as pancake art, which is exactly what it sounds like - an art form that involves creating works of art out of pancakes.

If the opportunity to make super tasty pancakes while simultaneously unleashing your artistic potential in the kitchen sounds like your idea of a good time, read on for some of our favourite recipes that you can try at home!

Confetti pancakes

Bring colour to your pancakes with this simple yet fancy recipe. Matisse and Rothko would approve!

Ingredients

To make six pancakes, you will need:

• 300g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp caster sugar

• 2 medium eggs

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 300ml milk

• hundreds and thousands

• vanilla ice cream

• fresh fruit of your choosing 

Start by tipping the flour, baking powder, sugar and two teaspoons of hundreds and thousands into a large bowl with a small pinch of salt, then crack in the eggs and whisk until smooth. Add the maple syrup and milk while whisking.

Next, heat a splash of oil and a small knob of butter in a non-stick frying pan until sizzling. Add a spoonful of batter and cook until bubbles start to form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side. Serve with sliced fresh fruit and vanilla ice cream. If that's not colourful enough, add a sprinkle of hundreds and thousands as a final flourish!

Unicorn pancakes

Stepping the difficulty up a notch, this adorable design is tricky but worth it in the end!

Ingredients

To make six unicorn pancakes, you will need:

• 300g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp caster sugar

• 2 medium eggs

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 300ml milk

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• hundreds and thousands

• white chocolate stars

• ice cream (optional)

• fresh fruit (optional)

• gel food colouring - 4 different colours is best

• 3 piping bags

Start by tipping the flour, baking powder, sugar and two teaspoons of hundreds and thousands into a large bowl with a small pinch of salt, then crack in the eggs and whisk until smooth. Add the maple syrup and milk while whisking.

Next, divide the mixture into three bowls. Mix one tablespoon of cocoa powder into one batch and put in a piping bag.

Dip a skewer or clean paint brush into some food colouring and draw a line on the inside of another piping bag from bottom to top, repeating a few times with different colours (pink, blue, green and yellow work well). Fill the piping bag with a batch of the pancake mix to create a rainbow batter. 

Put the remaining mix into the third piping bag, then snip the ends of each bag to create small nozzles.

Put a little sunflower oil in the base of a non-stick frying pan then warm over a low heat. Pipe the outline of a unicorn head into the pan using the cocoa mixture. Fill in the horn with the multicoloured batter, then use it to draw the unicorn's hair. Fill in the gaps with the plain batter, then increase the heat slightly and cook until everything has set. Once set, use a palette knife to carefully turn the pancake over and cook for another minute until the batter is cooked through. 

To make extra 'unicorn-y', scatter hundreds and thousands and white chocolate stars over a plate before placing your pancake on top. Serve with ice cream and/or fresh fruit if using.

You can use this method to make pancakes in any shape you like - other good options include bumble bees, llamas or lions!

Initials pancakes

Personalise your pancakes by making some in the shape of everyone's first name!

Ingredients

To make six ‘initials pancakes’, you will need:

• 300g self-raising flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp caster sugar

• 2 medium eggs

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 300ml milk

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

Start by tipping the flour, baking powder and sugar into a large bowl with a small pinch of salt, then crack in the eggs and whisk until smooth. Add the maple syrup and milk while whisking.

Pour approx 75% of the mixture into one bowl and the remaining 25% into another. Mix one tablespoon of cocoa powder into the smaller batch and put in a piping bag. Fill another piping bag with the plain batter.

Next, lightly grease a non-stick pan, then pipe cocoa-flavoured batter into the shape of the first letter of your name. Remember to write it backwards, so it's the right way round when the pancake is flipped! 

Turn your hob to a low heat and allow the pancake to cook for a few moments, then completely cover it with plain pancake batter. When bubbles rise to the surface, flip the pancake over to cook on the other side until completely set.

Why not let Cafe2U provide the perfect accompaniment to your pancakes?

As much as we like pancakes (and we do, a lot!) we'd never let our love of doughy snacks stop us delivering top-quality coffee to wherever our customers need us most. Whether it's to your office or your doorstep, our mobile baristas will be out and about on Pancake Day as usual. Contact your nearest Cafe2U van here to find out more and arrange a delivery.

Espresso Some Love for Valentine's Day 2023 with these Coffee Gifts

When most people think of Valentine's Day, the first things that come to mind are traditional gifts like flowers, chocolates and champagne.

While these are all perfectly adequate ideas, let's be honest - there's not much to excite coffee aficionados. So, if your other half is as fond of coffee as we are, what should you get them to show your love this year? How about one of these Valentine's Day coffee gifts?

Handmade coasters

Coffee lovers need coasters so why not push the boat out this Valentine's Day and get your partner some stylish and colourful ones they won't find on the highstreet? 

The ultimate coffee table accessory, these Mexico-inspired coasters will keep your furniture ring-free and brighten up any living area in which they're used. And, because they're hand-woven rather than wooden or plastic like most coasters, they're a guaranteed conversation piece for when guests come to visit.

Coffee body scrub

Coffee isn't only for drinking - it can also be used as part of an effective skin care routine!

Celebrated for their ability to leave your skin feeling nourished and moisturised, coffee scrubs even help combat breakouts, scars, stretch marks and cellulite.

This one from Frank Body, the world's leading coffee-based skincare company, is 100% natural and vegan, combining coffee, vitamin E and specially selected oils to leave skin feeling refreshed and smooth.

Once your coffee-loving other half tries it once, they'll never go back.

Classic cafetiere

One of the most widely used and best coffee filter machines in the world, cafetieres are a kitchen staple for many people and a brilliant gift for any coffee drinker who doesn't already own one.

Perfect for those that enjoy a full bodied coffee, cafetieres are easy to use - simply add freshly-boiled water and coffee grounds to the jug, leave for a few minutes, plunge the mesh filter down to the bottom of the beaker, then pour the brew straight into your mug. 

There are plenty to choose from in shops and online but a couple of our favourites are this 34oz glass and stainless steel French press from Bodum and this large capacity, double-wall insulated beauty from Coffee Gator.

Coffee necklace

Why not show your loved one how you feel about them with this charming coffee-themed necklace?

Made from sterling silver, this sweet piece of jewellery is eye-catching yet subtle, with a heart cutout that's impossible not to fall in love with. It even comes with a velvet storage bag and presentation gift box!

A prepaid Cafe2U card

If your partner is a Cafe2U customer, why not pick up the tab for their next few visits with one of our gift cards? When you prepay for five, they'll get the sixth completely free and it'll mocha their day!

Get in touch with your nearest Cafe2U barista here to find out more.

Happy Valentine's Day 2023 from everyone at Cafe2U!

We're happy whenever romance is in the air, so we hope everyone has a great time for Valentine's Day 2023. Our mobile coffee vans will be on the road as usual and you can get in touch with your nearest barista here if you'd like a quality brew delivered straight to your sweetheart's door!

Franchising Resolutions For 2023

Resolutions are for the whole year, not just January, so we've compiled five top franchising tips for you to stick to in 2023 in order to take your business to the next level.

Become as sustainable as possible

Climate change awareness is higher than ever, so it's imperative for your franchise to reduce its carbon footprint to become as sustainable as possible without delay. With consumers increasingly unlikely to deal with any company that isn't overtly environmentally friendly, ensuring your franchise is as sustainable as possible has become non-negotiable if you want it to succeed.

While sustainability has rightly been a buzzword for franchises for many years already, 2023 could well be the year when record numbers of businesses become greener than ever, with shifts towards going paper-free by digitising records, using recycled/recyclable/reusable products and materials wherever possible and installing long-lasting LED light bulbs among the most common initiatives.

At Cafe2U, our zero-emission electric vans are helping us on our way to becoming the UK's first carbon neutral coffee company.

Get out and about

This might sound obvious for a mobile business but in order to increase the profitability of your franchise, it's worth getting off the beaten track every once in a while.

Every Cafe2U franchisee has an exclusive territory in which to operate but, no matter how well they know the area, untapped opportunities can often be found within it. If there's a good-sized park or sports field in your vicinity, find out if any upcoming events are taking place there as these will often provide you with an excellent opportunity to make new customers.

Freshen up your offering

It's no secret that customers quickly become bored if a franchise's product offering stays exactly the same every day. That's why it's so important to occasionally add new items to your menu to complement your perennial best-sellers to keep regular customers interested and attract new business.

Keep an eye out for opportunities like Easter, Halloween etc and offer products themed around them when the time comes. Our sweet and warming S'more mochas always go down a treat around Bonfire Night!

Plan for upcoming seasonal events

Do your research to make sure you're always prepared for any national holidays or awareness days that are just around the corner and can be targeted by your franchise. Bank Holidays are an obvious example as they can provide multiple catering opportunities for your franchise.

What this means is that you should be promoting your services now - whether it’s in person or online - to try and get some bookings in the diary. A simple Google search will also bring up a list of other relevant dates for you to note down and target. 

Ensure you're making the most of social media

It's one thing to be on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram but if you're not posting regularly and using them to interact with customers, you're missing a trick!

As well as allowing you to let people know when you'll be out and about - and where you'll be - social media also allows you to advertise any new drinks or snacks you're offering, answer customers' questions and build strong relationships with consumers.

Franchising opportunities with Cafe2U

If you're interested in changing careers or becoming your own boss, franchising is one of the most risk-free ways of doing so.

All our franchisees receive all the training and support they need to help make their business a success. If you're interested in investing in a Cafe2U franchise, click here for more information.

Get Involved With 'Brew Monday' 2023

You've probably heard of Blue Monday, the name given to the third Monday in January that is allegedly the most depressing day of the year. But what about ‘Brew Monday’?

What is Brew Monday?

Brew Monday is the brainchild of emotional support charity, Samaritans, and is designed to directly counteract the doom and gloom surrounding Blue Monday by encouraging people to reach out to their friends and family, arrange a catch-up over a coffee and enjoy some quality time together.

Those interested in taking part can also choose to raise funds for Samaritans by hosting a Brew Monday event. While the fundraising methods are up to the host, they typically involve baking cakes or biscuits then selling them to guests and sending the proceeds to Samaritans.

When Does Brew Monday 2023 Take Place?

Brew Monday takes place on the same day as Blue Monday which, this year, is on January 16th.

Why take part?

According to estimates, Samaritans responds to a call for help every 10 seconds from someone who is struggling to cope and wants to talk about their feelings without judgement or pressure. 

As a charity, it relies on donations so hosting a Brew Monday event to help raise funds enables it to continue providing support to people in the UK and the Republic of Ireland who are suffering emotional distress.

How Do I Take Part?

Taking part is as easy as inviting a friend round for a coffee, while those wanting to arrange a larger get-together can either organise a tea-party at home or at work, or host a virtual event via a website/app like Zoom, Skype or Facebook Messenger.

Simply select a date and location for your event, invite your guests and bake some treats to sell them. If you're hosting an event at work, remember to book a meeting room that's big enough for all the invitees.

Then, if yours is a fundraising event, all you need to do is collect all your donations and send them to Samaritans. You can pay by cheque, bank transfer or over the phone. For more information, visit this page.

If you need some tips or activities to make your event go smoothly, take a look at this page.

For help arranging an event, email: community&events@samaritans.org

How Cafe2U can help

If you're hosting a fundraising event or would just like a professional barista to make your guests' hot drinks, why not book one of our mobile cafés to come and handle the coffee-making duties for you?

You can find your nearest Cafe2U van here.

Best Vegan Bakes To Go With Coffee

Veganuary is an annual challenge that promotes - and educates about - veganism and its benefits by encouraging people to follow a vegan lifestyle throughout January, in order to help end animal farming and protect the environment. 

With celebrity ambassadors including ex-Beatle Sir Paul McCartney, actor Joaquin Phoenix and author and poet Benjamin Zephaniah, the Veganuary movement has grown in popularity since its inception in 2014, with more than 620,000 people taking part in 2022.

If you're a coffee-lover who is taking part in Veganuary 2023 and your favourite biscuit or cake isn't vegan, what are the best vegan bakes to enjoy with a fresh brew instead? Let's take a look.

Vegan cranberry and orange cookies

Oaty, zesty and perfect for dunking, these fruity delights put the 'oo' in 'cookie'!

Ingredients

To make 12 cranberry and orange cookies, you will need: 

• 85g flavourless oil (such as sunflower or vegetable)

• 75g caster sugar

• 75g light muscovado sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 orange, zested

• 175g plain flour

• 50g jumbo oats

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 75g dried cranberries, roughly chopped

Begin by heating your oven to 190C/170C fan/ gas 5, then line two baking trays with parchment paper. Whisk the oil together with the sugars, vanilla extract and 2 tbsp water in a large bowl until smooth, then stir in the orange zest.

Next, combine the flour, oats, baking powder, bicarb, cinnamon and 1/2 tsp of sea salt flakes in a separate bowl. Tip the dry ingredients into the wet, mix until you have a thick dough, then stir in the cranberries.

Form the dough into 12 evenly sized balls. Arrange on the baking trays, leaving a space between each one. Flatten slightly with your palm, then bake for 13-15 mins until the edges are set. Leave to cool for 15 mins on the trays before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Vegan flapjack

This recipe encourages anyone making it to be adventurous with the nuts and dried fruits of their choosing, proving that variety really is the spice of life!

Ingredients

To make 16 vegan flapjacks, you will need:

• 140g dairy-free spread

• 140g soft light brown sugar

• 2 tbsp golden syrup

• 175g rolled oats

• 75g chopped nuts of your choice

• 75g dried fruit (such as raisins, dried cranberries or chopped apricots)

Heat your oven to 160C/140C fan/gas 4 and line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper. Melt the dairy-free spread, sugar and syrup in a saucepan over a medium heat, then remove from the heat and add in the oats, chopped nuts and dried fruit. Transfer to the tin, packing the mix in with the back of a spoon.

Bake for 30 - 35 mins until lightly golden and crisp around the edges. Leave to cool in the tin before slicing into squares.

Vegan chocolate traybake

Perfect as an afternoon treat or for special occasions, this traybake recipe is as indulgent as it is simple.

Ingredients

To make a traybake for 12, you will need:

• 215ml sunflower oil, plus extra for the tin

• 300ml soy, almond or coconut milk

• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar

• 335g light muscovado sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 175g soy or coconut yoghurt

• 300g self-raising flour

• 105g cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the buttercream, you will need:

• 100g dark dairy-free chocolate

• 140g vegan spread, at room temperature

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 265g icing sugar, sifted

• ½–1 tbsp plant milk (whatever you used in the sponge)

• colourful vegan sprinkles, to decorate

Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Oil a 23 x 33cm baking tin (at least 4cm deep) and line the bases and sides with parchment paper. Whisk the milk and vinegar together in a jug, then set aside.

Next, whisk the sugar, oil and vanilla extract together in a bowl, then whisk in the yoghurt, pour in the soured milk and mix well.

Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and ¼ tsp salt into a separate bowl and stir well to combine. Gradually whisk the wet ingredients into the dry until the batter becomes smooth. Pour the batter into the tin and bake for 30-35 mins, until well risen and springy, and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out almost clean.

Leave the cake to cool in its tin for 20 mins, then carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

For the vegan buttercream, melt the chocolate in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water, then leave to cool. Beat the spread and vanilla on high speed in a stand mixer for a few minutes until pale and fluffy, then add the icing sugar gradually, beating on slow to start with, then turning up the speed to max until the mixture is light and creamy. Pour in the cooled chocolate and combine. Add a little plant milk if the icing is very stiff. Chill the buttercream for at least 30 mins before using.

When the cake is completely cool, spread the icing over the top and decorate with the sprinkles. Keep the cake in the fridge to stay firm, then remove one hour before serving.

Happy Veganuary 2023 from Cafe2U!

As big fans of vegan bakes, you won't be surprised to hear that Cafe2U also offers a range of vegan-friendly alternative milks. Contact your nearest van and find out more here.

Franchise Forecast for 2023

As a new year looms, franchisors across the UK are analysing 2022's trends to try and ascertain the direction in which the franchise industry is heading. While external factors like rising inflation rates and reduced consumer spending are out of their control, there are still plenty of things franchisors can do to give themselves the greatest chance of success over the coming months. 

Successful organisations know they must constantly evolve to remain ahead of the pack and these are the three ways in which we expect to see growing franchises shape the franchise industry in 2023.

Becoming as environmentally friendly as possible

With awareness of the importance of sustainability at an all-time high among consumers, environmentally-aware businesses are reaping the well-deserved rewards, as customers increasingly choose to only support those that protect the environment as much as possible or, better yet, give something back to it too.

Franchises that use recycled and/or recyclable products, work to reduce their carbon footprint and demand the same of their partners and suppliers can expect to earn the support of both customers and potential franchisees over those that exist solely to make money in 2023.

Innovating

Every franchise wants to be profitable and increasing your profit margin invariably means taking a percentage of one of your competitors' market share. One of the most effective ways of doing so is by being as innovative as possible in order to get in front of - and appeal to - as wide an audience as possible.

In the mobile coffee industry, this might mean developing an app that customers can use to make their experience more convenient, embracing digital advertising or switching from diesel vehicles to electric models - all moves which are both innovative and environmentally-friendly and ones Cafe2U has made in recent years.

It would be a surprise if the franchises that innovate the most in 2023 aren't celebrating another successful year in 12 months time.

Through sustained growth

According to the British Franchise Association (BFA), approximately 710,000 people are employed in the UK franchise industry, with more than 90% of franchisees running at a profit.

Against the backdrop of the ongoing cost of living crisis, it's not unreasonable to think that many who can afford to do so will be tempted to invest in the franchising industry in 2023. This will allow them to take back control of their finances by becoming their own boss in a demonstrably profitable industry that remains low risk, with fewer than 1% of franchises failing each year in comparison to the approximately 60% of non-franchise SME start-ups that fail within their first five years.

Those franchises that make themselves most appealing to would-be franchisees in 2023 should be in for an excellent year.

Could a Cafe2U franchise be right for you?

At Cafe2U, we have a network of circa 100 franchise partners, with new franchisees joining regularly. If you're interested in becoming the owner of a mobile coffee franchise and a qualified barista operating in your own exclusive area, you can find out more about our franchise opportunities here.

We’ll supply you with everything you need to get your business off the ground, from training and equipment to ongoing support and advice on marketing.

With an excellent reputation, ever-expanding customer base and impressive sustainability record, we're sure that joining the Cafe2U family in 2023 is a decision you won't regret.

Best Coffee Cracker Jokes for Christmas 2022

Looking to stir things up with a few coffee-centric gags this Christmas? Well we sure are, so bear with us as we present some of our favourite coffee-themed gags - all of which are deSERVING of a place in even the poshest crackers!

1. How did the hipster burn her mouth? She drank her coffee before it was cool!

2. What do gossiping coffees do? Spill the beans!

3. Why did the coffee file a police report? Because it got mugged!

4. What do you call it when you walk into a cafe you’re sure you’ve been to before? Déjà brew!

5. Why shouldn't you drink 1p espresso? It’s a cheap shot!

6. How are coffee beans like teenagers? They're always getting grounded!

7. What’s a barista’s favourite exercise at the gym? The French press!

8. Why did the coffee-shop worker get fired? He kept showing up in a tea-shirt!

9. What do you call a sad cup of coffee? A depresso!

10. Why did the kangaroo stop drinking coffee? It made him too jumpy!

Merry Christmas from Cafe2U!

What do you mean 'don't give up your day job'?!

Send us your favourite coffee Christmas cracker jokes via our social channels and we'll share the best ones over the coming weeks!