AN ambitious entrepreneur who runs a busy coffee shop in Swansea's Waterstone's bookstore plans to spread his Coffee Culture concept across the country.

Barry Mortlock, aged 51, is keen to work with a major national retailer to franchise the brand as the country emerges from the recession.

He said: "During the recession, everybody has had to streamline and be proactive with marketing to hold their heads above water.

"Those that have survived are in a strong position to take advantage of the economic upturn.

"It has given us time to make the Coffee Culture concept franchise- friendly, and we are now looking to work with a major national retailer on the next phase of development."

Mr Mortlock has been working in the service industry since 1997, after deciding to leave a management role at Lloyds TSB bank in Llandudno.

He first set up Badgers Tearooms and patisserie in the North Wales seaside resort, before selling up and establishing Coffee Culture in 2002.

The Swansea arm of the business, which sells a range of organic and Fairtrade goods, was set up six years later, and currently employs 12 people.

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Mr Mortlock added: "Our low staff turnover is a good indicator they are happy and motivated. I also have a great culture co-ordinator in Eileen Burrows, who has superb people and customer service skills."

Mrs Burrows and her husband, Simon, who is general manager, form the senior management team with Mr Mortlock.

They say their mission is to be a caring employer that focuses on people development, and creates quality jobs and enjoyable workplaces.

The company's vision is to be first choice for a quality product offered with a high level of service, and to become a nationally recognised Best in Class brand that invests in its personnel and creates a desirable work culture.

Business adviser Michele Spratley says the company is committed to good practice in everything it does.

"Although it is a small company, it has big ideas and is very professional in its approach," she said.

Coffee Culture's parent company, Badgers Group, was given Investor in People status in 2001.

ben.wright@swwmedia.co.uk