Redemption Roasters is the world’s first “behind bars” coffee company with a dozen cafes including in Hampstead, Islington and King’s Cross.
They aim to reduce reoffending rates by training prison inmates in roasting and barista skills and offering employment to ex-offenders after release.
But their coffee shop, which only opened in Muswell Hill Road in October 2024, is closing its doors after less than 18 months.
A spokesperson for the chain said: “Following a review of the location’s performance we made the decision to close the site and focus our resources on maintaining a strong and sustainable group of stores across London.”
Like the other cafes the Muswell Hill cafe serves pastries, sandwiches and hot drinks in sleek contemporary spaces wooden counters and tables.
But they will be serving its final cappuccinos on Friday, March 6.
Locals expressed dismay at the news with one posting on Facebook page Muswell Hill & Friends: “I was so hopeful they’d do well here in Muswell Hill. I love their mission.”
But others spoke of high rents and costs spelling doom for local businesses.
“Rents are just too high to make many businesses sustainable and viable sadly,” wrote one.
While others pointed to the cost of the coffee.
“The coffee there was so expensive,” said one post.
Another added: “I loved the idea of it but the coffee wasn’t good enough, for me anyway.”
For others, the market for coffee shops in Muswell Hill is too crowded: “There are multiple coffee retail outlets in Muswell Hill, probably too many. Won’t miss it, sad for the employees though,” posted one.
Another wrote: “Coffee shop in an already saturated high street was never going to work. We need a decent sized Boots or Superdrug!”
