Restaurants & Bars

Popular Coffee Franchise To Open 2 Shops In Worcester

Both proposed cafes would be located within apartment complexes in the city.

WORCESTER, MA — A New England-based specialty coffee brand is planning to expand its footprint in Worcester with two new locations.

Identity Coffee Co. is expected to open both locations inside apartment complexes in the city. The proposed cafes would be located at 1 Green Island Blvd. at The Revington and 383 Shrewsbury St. at Railroad Lofts.

Richard Barber, representing the company, appeared before the Worcester License Commission on Apr. 30 to seek approval for two common victualler licenses.

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Barber told commissioners the company is aiming to tailor each location to its surrounding community, with a particular focus on students and young professionals.

At the Shrewsbury Street site, Identity Coffee hopes to tap into the nearby UMass Chan Medical School population. Barber said the cafe plans to open an hour earlier than the other location to better serve medical students and early-morning commuters in the area.

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The second cafe, at Green Island Boulevard, is also expected to benefit from its proximity to new apartment developments, helping the company build a regular customer base among residents.

Identity Coffee Co. has roots in northern New England and operates a roastery in nearby Westminster, supplying its cafes with small-batch roasted beans. The company has been growing steadily in the region, emphasizing community-focused spaces and specialty coffee offerings.

While it's not yet clear when the two coffee shops will open, the License Commission unanimously approved licenses for both.

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