New independent coffee shop opens in city centre
An independent coffee shop, Forum Coffee, has opened in Gloucester’s Forum development, partnering with Gloucestershire's Ethical Addictions business.
An independent speciality coffee shop, Forum Coffee, has officially opened at Gloucester’s Forum development, bringing locally roasted coffee, a seasonal food menu and new jobs to the city centre.
The coffee shop at 7 Cathedral Walk serves speciality coffee roasted by Gloucestershire-based Ethical Addictions, alongside brunch, lunch and baked goods.
Food is prepared by an in-house kitchen team, with ingredients and products sourced from a range of local independent suppliers.
A dedicated “roasters’ corner” will give customers the chance to meet the team, learn about the roasting process and see the beans up close.
Hudson Talbot, Forum Coffee co-founder, said: “Over the past few weeks, the team has been hard at work, not only fitting out the new space, but also crafting an exciting menu of drinks, including bold, expertly-crafted coffees and refreshing smoothies.
“We wanted to create somewhere people enjoy spending time, whether that’s catching up with friends, meeting colleagues or taking a break during the day. Forum Coffee offers an experience, not just an on-the-go caffeine fix – although we do offer that too!
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone and sharing our passion for coffee.”
Forum Coffee has created 10 new jobs, recruiting baristas, chefs and front of house staff from across Gloucestershire.
Cllr Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “It’s wonderful to see Forum Coffee open its doors and bring another high-quality independent business into the city centre. This is exactly the kind of investment we want to encourage – supporting local suppliers, creating jobs and giving people more reasons to spend time in Gloucester.
“The Forum is transforming this part of the city, and Forum Coffee is an excellent addition that will help make it a vibrant place to work, meet and visit.”
The Forum is a £107million mixed-use development in Gloucester city centre, brought forward by Gloucester City Council and developers Reef + Partners.
Peter Langly-Smith, managing director of Reef + Partners, said: “Forum Coffee is an example of the type of independent business this space was created to support. From the outset, our ambition has been to keep The Forum rooted in Gloucester by championing local businesses with strong values and a clear vision.
“We hope the people of Gloucester will support Forum Coffee and experience what the wider Forum development has to offer.”
This press release was sent to The Raikes Journal by Distinctive Communications on 1 July 2026.
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