Redemption Roasters operates over 13 specialty coffee locations across London, serving espresso-based drinks, filter coffee, and light food options. All coffee is roasted at their facility within HMP The Mount in Hertfordshire, where they run barista training programs as part of their social enterprise model aimed at reducing reoffending rates.

Locations range from compact kiosks in the City to larger spaces with seating areas. The company operates both retail coffee shops and wholesale operations, supplying coffee to over 100 clients across London.

Founded in 2017, the business model combines commercial coffee operations with training programs across 14 UK prisons. They have trained over 1,500 individuals through their barista academies, with program graduates making up over 20% of their shop workforce. Participants in their employment program show a 4% reoffending rate compared to the national average of 38%.

Why we love them:

• Social impact leadership: Trained over 1,500 individuals through partnerships with 14 UK prisons, with employed participants showing just 4% reoffending rate vs 38% national average ✓

• Sustainable employment model: Provides direct employment pathways with over 20% of shop workforce being program graduates, plus ongoing wellbeing and development support ✓

• Ethical sourcing principles: 94% of coffee meets at least one of three key principles - rehabilitation, sustainability, and female economic empowerment, aiming for 100% by 2025 ✓

• Community training expansion: Operates barista academy at King's Cross HQ to train prison leavers and at-risk individuals ✓

• Mental health support: Training programs specifically address mental health challenges faced by participants in the justice system ✓

What’s on offer: Specialty coffee roasted behind bars at HMP The Mount / Multiple London cafe locations with full espresso and filter offerings / Barista training and employment opportunities / Wholesale coffee for businesses / Social impact partnerships

Opening hours: Vary by location across London / King's Cross HQ offers community training programs