Cambridge Marketing College apprentice, Louise Murphy, creates successful coffee brand to help the homeless

This year, Louise Murphy, one of Cambridge Marketing College’s apprentices, founded a coffee brand called Calderwood Coffee. All the profit Calderwood Coffee makes on their sales goes straight back into funding their organisation, Time To Change West Cumbria.  Time To Change West Cumbria tackles homelessness and poverty in the local area. We’ve caught up with Louise to see how her project has grown in the last few months. 

"Coffee sales have been fantastic, with loyal, repeat customers every month. I often sell out at events, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive—far exceeding both my own and my colleagues' expectations.” 

Since launching Calderwood Coffee, I’ve pretty much managed the entire process myself, and I’m so pleased that it’s still going strong six months in. 

I’m also excited to share a new project that I’m passionate about, which I believe is a perfect extension of the Calderwood Coffee ethos. I’m in the process of opening a coffee shop at our community centre!  

At the end of October, I’ll be attending a professional Barista course so I can train our residents / ex-residents, vulnerable people and care leavers baristas.  

This initiative aims to build their confidence, self-worth, and provide them with a sense of purpose. Once they’re confident, I’ll also be able to connect them with volunteer opportunities at local coffee shops and cafés in the community 

The coffee shop is an exciting extension of Calderwood Coffee, and I’ve already furnished it—it looks fantastic! 

I’m also thrilled to share that I’ve been shortlisted for a Rising Star award at the BECBC Business Awards 2024!" - Louise M.  

If you wish to donate or want to learn more about Time To Change West Cumbria, click here.