The brews begin in Battersea

In this week’s blog, we delve into the latest at our new Over Under site at Battersea Power Station. We chat about the area, the biggest learnings, and how to offer coffee on wheels. 

With our first mobile site opening south of the river this week, we took the opportunity to catch up with Gina Langford; our Head of Growth and People. Gina is in charge of all our new site openings at Over Under. This opening is not her first rodeo. We talk to her about how it compared to the others that she’s overseen, and what she thinks of our newest location.

Hi Gina, Thanks so much for your time. You must be pleased that the Battersea truck is now open? 

Yes, this is my fifth opening. I’ve also opened our Clapham store, Ladbroke Grove, South Kensington, and Gloucester Road. This was my first on wheels, so it was exciting!

How have you found this opening compared to others?

The thing with store openings is there is always a set of unexpected challenges. Whenever you think you’re on the straight and narrow, something will pop up and take you off course. That being said, this one has been the easiest yet to execute. It’s been really fun!

What did you learn this time around?

Well, this is the first time the team and I have ever done anything that is mobile, which adds another layer of complexity when it comes to water, plumbing, and electronics. We were on a dividing line of two estates for our water, so we had to work with both the Battersea line and builders line together in order to get a successful outcome.

But what I’ve learned is the importance of making quick and clear decisions and keeping everyone informed. Clear communication is key!

How long did the project take at Battersea from start to completion? 

We first saw the truck up in Manchester back in May. It took longer than you may think to get it made and kitted out. However, once the wheels touched down in Battersea, it only took a couple of weeks. It’s all the boring stuff that you don’t see like the leases and building regulations that takes time.

What do you think of the new Battersea location? 

I think we have a really strong presence in South West London so I think we’ll do really well. I’m also a south-sider myself, so I’m perhaps biased but I think the location is great. The development is new and fresh, so the whole Over Under team is very happy to be there. We are a really unique fun brand for the area too. Most of the stores in the community are very high-end, so we bring a bit of fun I’d say!

Okay, last question, can you tell us, are there any more openings in the pipeline?

Having already opened 3 sites this year, we’re focusing on our existing stores for the rest of the year. But you can never say never! I have a feeling that this will be the first of many mobile sites to come. 

Thanks so much for your time Gina, If you haven’t already popped down to our new store in Battersea, stop by and check it out.

We’ll be running our Free Coffee Week promotion from Monday 5th September - Friday 9th September, 8am -10am to celebrate the new opening, so stop by and get in on the action.