Much has been made of Tesco’s investment in artisan coffee shop Harris + Hoole, so much so that chief executive Philip Clarke wrote a blog a couple of weeks ago defending the grocer’s position.

Much has been made of Tesco’s investment in artisan coffee shop Harris + Hoole, so much so that chief executive Philip Clarke wrote a blog a couple of weeks ago defending the grocer’s position.

But all the hoohar - mostly from middle-class Crouch Enders outraged that anything related to Tesco should open in their vicinity - is just a distraction. And one which Tesco probably doesn’t mind.

Tesco said earlier in the year that it would open Harris + Hoole concessions in its stores when the founders were ready. And it seems they are ready as the first will open in its Tooley Street branch in London Bridge.

This is a big step for Tesco. Along with its Euphorium Bakery concessions - one of which is also in Tooley Street - the Harris + Hoole concessions will help change the feel of Tesco stores.

While they won’t suit every store, they will bring a new dimension to those they operate in. They will help create a better store environment - something which Tesco has made great strides on this year - and give middle-class shoppers a reason to go there.

We could well see more of these types of deals coming from Tesco too. Whether it just links up with businesses, takes stakes in them, or indeed ends up buying a cafe or restaurant chain, it is clearly examining all options to make its store environments work harder.

 

 

 

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