Published on: Wednesday, 31 August 2022
Last updated: Wednesday, 31 August 2022
The new Costa store at Ipswich railway station. Credit: Greater Anglia
A new Costa Coffee store has officially opened at Ipswich rail station, creating seven new jobs for the local community.
Coffee fans can enter the new store from either the front of the station or from platform 2 and enjoy a handcrafted drink while sitting in or as a takeaway option. Those looking for a bite to eat can choose from a range of food options available including toasties, sandwiches, or items from the sweet counter.
Costa Coffee has invested in a range of innovative new digital features to provide a seamless customer experience. Digital menu boards make browsing the menu easier than ever, and the Click & Collect service on the Costa Club app means people can save time by ordering in advance and collecting on-the-go.
The store is part of a £3m package of improvements at the station which last year saw the ticket office relocated, extra ticket machines installed and the relocation and refurbishment of the customer toilets on platform 2.
The station was also rewired to provide modern, sustainable lighting and power.
Simone Bailey, Greater Anglia’s Asset Management Director, said, “I’m delighted that the Costa Coffee store has opened, improving customer service and the ambience of the station.
“As passengers return to the railway, it’s important that we continue to invest in upgrades that will improve their journey and maintain rail as an attractive travel option by providing excellent facilities and service to our customers.”
Nadine Greens, Costa Area Manager for Ipswich & North Essex said: “We’re thrilled to have officially opened our Costa Coffee store at Ipswich Station allowing our on-the-go customers to easily and conveniently grab their favourite Costa coffee and a delicious savoury or sweet snack before continuing with their journey.”
Four years ago, Greater Anglia invested £2 million in a host of improvements including a complete refurbishment of the existing foyer and ticket hall to create more space during busy periods, the creation of a large airport-style waiting room as well as more comfortable seats with plug points for charging electronic devices.
Additional ticket machines were installed and more shops and retail outlets including Greggs opened at the station.
The station forecourt was revamped, in partnership with Suffolk County Council and Ipswich Borough Council with a much-improved layout, including better walking routes for pedestrians, improved bus interchange facilities and better segregation of access between taxis and drop off/meet and greet facilities.
The Costa Coffee store in Ipswich Station is open from 6am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm on Saturday and 8am to 5pm on Sundays.
The new Costa store at Ipswich railway station. Credit: Greater Anglia