Clan Cancer Support has creatively expanded its fundraising efforts by opening a new coffee shop in Aberdeen, utilising a converted horsebox.
This innovative venture aims to increase the charity’s income and move beyond traditional fundraising methods.
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The Coffee Box, located in Westburn Park, is now open daily from 8am to 2pm, with all proceeds supporting the charity’s work at Clan House, situated next to the park on Westburn Road.
Clan has hired barista staff to serve hot beverages made with coffee from local roaster LongWalk Coffee, alongside snacks such as doughnuts from Dough and Co., based on Belmont Street.
Teresa Bremner, Clan’s commercial manager, said: “The launch of The Coffee Box at Westburn Park marks an exciting milestone in Clan’s journey to deliver long term sustainable income to support our services and we are so pleased to be open for business and serving quality products in our local area.
“The Coffee Box shares Clan’s mission of empowering and improving people’s lives and we hope our customers enjoy taking time for themselves in the beautiful surroundings of Westburn Park, knowing their purchase is helping Clan provide emotional and physical support to people impacted by cancer.”
The decision to launch this business followed feedback from residents at Clan Accommodation and market research conducted by the charity, which highlighted a local demand for a coffee shop in the park.
The horsebox was donated, and local businesses offered support, enabling the charity to embark on this venture. Bilfinger UK contributed employee volunteers to refurbish the horsebox, while North-east services provided plumbing and electrical assistance.
The unit, measuring approximately two metres in length, has been transformed into a fully equipped serving station, complete with a professional coffee machine, fridge, and water supply. It will remain in Westburn Park, with staff ensuring its operation throughout the year.
Gavin Morris, operations director at Bilfinger Engineering and Maintenance UK, said: “The Coffee Box will help Clan generate crucial funds to support those affected by cancer in our local community, and we are delighted to have played our part to support the unique initiative.
“We hope everyone enjoys utilising the new service as much as we have enjoyed being a part of extending the life and repurposing the horsebox into The Coffee Box.”
Teresa added: “We’re extremely grateful to everyone who has helped us to launch The Coffee Box, especially Bilfinger and North-east Services whose support has been invaluable.
“We’d also like to thank all our customers – we appreciate every single person who has taken the time to visit us so far. We look forward to serving many more people throughout the summer and for many more seasons to come.”
A full menu and opening times can be found on the business’ dedicated social media pages on Instagram and Facebook.
