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Ambitious plans by an independent brunch and coffee brand to open up to 30 more sites over the next five years have been given a timely funding boost.

Since opening its first branch in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, BEAR’s growth strategy has seen the company expand quickly with additional branches in Derby, London and Stone.

Recently, the company opened a second branch in Derby, in the Intu Derby shopping centre, serving customers with speciality coffee, brunch, cocktails and craft beer from morning until evening.

Now, to help with its future plans, the firm has secured an increased funding facility from HSBC º£½ÇÊÓƵ.

BEAR intends to use the new funding to free up the cash-flow required to fulfil its expansion plans, design and fit-out stores and invest in staff training and marketing.

Craig Bunting, who co-founded the business with Michael Thorley, said: “Our aim is to quickly become a cornerstone business on the high street and wholly integrate ourselves into the communities surrounding our stores.

“The site at Intu Derby is our first within a purpose-built retail destination. It’s a big move for us which will help us to tap into the high footfall at the centre, share our BEAR vision with more people and give us the potential to explore international opportunities.

“We’ve worked with HSBC º£½ÇÊÓƵ since we opened our first business bank account in 2015.