Member Article

Mint Hobo takes a place on Yarm High Street

North East coffee aficionado Steve Ashman has realised a longstanding dream of owning his own coffee shop, bringing his newly licensed cafe concept ‘Mint Hobo’ to Yarm High Street.

Opening in December 2015, with late opening hours and a drinks licence, the coffee shop is situated between Jules B ladies clothes shop and Osbourne’s Bar.

After carrying out extensive trials to perfect his blends of coffees and teas, the new business owner feels the shop will be a success with produce complemented by a friendly and welcoming environment.

Having been employed as a store manager for a large supermarket for 20 years, Steve is experienced in food retail, store management and customer service.

Yet, having never run a business of his own, Steve sought support from Five Lamps a charity that supports the community by re-investing any profit back into the business.

As well as business advisor Ian Garforth offering one-to-one help, Steve paid tribute to wife Claire who he says has worked tirelessly with him from idea to opening.

Steve was placed on the New Enterprise Allowance programme, which provides qualifying Business start-ups with some financial assistance and they discussed all aspects of business development including market research, staffing, refitting the premises, options around product range, advertising, and business plan compilation.Steve said of the service he had from Five Lamps: “Being unemployed for the first time after a fortunate 30 years work is daunting enough, couple with opening a business is scary.

“At a time when your confidence may be at its lowest you need to be at your most confident. I found Alison at the Job Centre helpful and Ian and his colleagues at Five Lamps priceless!

“At a challenging time Five Lamps were in a position to what no one else could, listen, advise, steer and build confidence.”

Ian Garforth, Five Lamps Business Advisor, said: “Steve was a pleasure to work with. His management experience and local knowledge stood him in good stead, but a lot of hard work has gone into this Business.

“Steve looks at the detail and insists on the products being of the highest quality to cater for the discerning customer but without silly prices. This, plus the friendly atmosphere has resulted in Mint Hobo being a fantastic Coffee House.

“He was fortunate to be able to ask for help from his wife Claire, who has worked with Steve on this project from the start. Their attention to detail and passion shine through, especially when you taste the coffee!”