(Photo: Union Media)
Aberdeen is set to welcome a vibrant new addition this weekend as Brazilian açaí specialist Jungle Berry opens its first Scottish store on Union Street. The grand launch takes place on Saturday 16 August, with the first 100 customers from 12 noon receiving a free açaí bowl, and everyone else in the queue enjoying 20% off the menu for the rest of the day.
The opening marks a significant step in the brand’s UK expansion, with Aberdeen chosen as the starting point for its Scottish journey. Franchise owner Otavio Freitas, originally from Brazil and now a long-term Aberdeen resident, said it was an easy decision to choose the Granite City over Glasgow or Edinburgh for Jungle Berry’s debut north of the border.
“Aberdeen has been home for me for many years now, so it felt natural to start here,” he said. “I know the community, I’ve built strong relationships here, and I wanted Jungle Berry’s first step into Scotland to be somewhere that already means a lot to me.”
Jungle Berry is not your typical coffee shop. It offers Europe’s first truly natural açai, with no artificial colours, no syrup and no additives – simply premium, organic-certified pulp sourced directly from the Amazon and packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Customers can enjoy customisable bowls, smoothies, protein shakes, juices, pão de queijo cheese bread, paninis and freshly brewed coffee, all made with natural, non-GMO ingredients and a focus on sustainability. The store also offers free alternative milk options, including almond, oat and coconut, at no extra charge.
The Aberdeen store joins the Embargo loyalty app, allowing customers to collect stamps towards free toppings or even a complimentary açaí bowl after eight visits. The app can be used across a range of participating businesses in Aberdeen and beyond, allowing users to build rewards while supporting multiple local venues.
Freitas believes the concept will fit seamlessly into Aberdeen’s growing wellness and healthy living scene. “I think we fit in perfectly with that movement. Our menu is designed around natural, high-quality ingredients, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for something nourishing after a workout or just as part of a balanced lifestyle,” he said. “Plus, we want to be a place where people feel good about what they’re eating.”
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Founded by Bruno Damiano in London, Jungle Berry has grown rapidly with stores across England, Ireland and Portugal, and ambitions to expand further across Europe. “Opening in Aberdeen shows how strong our concept is, and how much people are craving something fresh, healthy and full of purpose,” Damiano said.
Jungle Berry will open at 409 Union Street on Saturday, the 16th August from 8am, but the free 100 bowls will beging being distributed from 12 noon.
