Jamaica Blue Set to Join Queensgate

Why It Matters

The addition diversifies Queensgate’s tenant mix, boosting visitor spend and reinforcing Invesco’s strategy to attract premium food‑and‑beverage concepts. It also signals confidence in the UK coffee‑shop market amid broader retail recovery.

Key Takeaways

• Jamaica Blue secures 1,270 sq ft space in Queensgate Upper Mall
• Brand adds specialty coffee and brunch menu to Peterborough centre
• Invesco cites strong 2026 F&B leasing momentum across its portfolio
• Foodco leverages high footfall to accelerate UK growth strategy
• CBRE and Time Retail Partners manage the lease for Queensgate

Pulse Analysis

The UK retail landscape is witnessing a resurgence of food‑and‑beverage leasing, as landlords prioritize experience‑driven concepts that can draw consistent foot traffic. Coffee‑centric brands, in particular, have become anchor tenants because they encourage repeat visits and longer dwell times, which benefit surrounding retailers. In this context, Queensgate’s decision to bring Jamaica Blue into its Upper Mall aligns with a broader industry shift toward premium, all‑day dining options that complement traditional retail offerings.

Jamaica Blue, owned by Australian group Foodco, has been expanding aggressively across the United Kingdom, targeting high‑visibility locations that match its upscale, specialty‑coffee positioning. The 1,270 sq ft Queensgate unit will showcase the brand’s flagship Jamaica Blue Mountain blend and a curated brunch menu, reinforcing its reputation for quality and consistency. By entering Peterborough—a market with strong commuter and shopper traffic—Foodco not only broadens its geographic footprint but also tests a scalable format that can be replicated in similar mid‑size city centres.

For Invesco Real Estate, the lease underscores a strategic emphasis on curating a vibrant tenant mix that elevates the overall customer experience. The partnership with CBRE and Time Retail Partners ensures professional asset and leasing management, reducing risk while maximizing revenue potential. As consumer expectations evolve, centres that blend retail with compelling food‑and‑beverage destinations like Jamaica Blue are better positioned to capture discretionary spend, drive footfall, and sustain long‑term profitability.