Kempton Park, we’re brewing up something exciting!

Joburg’s East Rand has a new place to pause, connect and celebrate life’s little moments: welcome to the area’s very first Starbucks!

This brand new store, which has opened at Harvest Place Shopping Centre in Kempton Park, is set to become a meeting place for commuters, coffice-workers and coffee lovers alike, says Leah McCrae, Manging Director, Rand Capital Coffee, Starbucks Licensee South Africa.

“Around the country, we’re proud to welcome people to our Third Place philosophy,” Leah says, “and this beautiful store is no different.”

That means that guests can look forward not only to receiving their favourite hand-crafted beverage, made from premium coffee and served with a smile by a highly skilled Partner; they can also find a haven of calm in a space designed for comfort, creativity and where their daily rituals feel naturally at home. This applies whether they’re looking for a space to take a moment to themselves in the midst of a busy day, an area where they can sit amongst like-minded people as they chase deadlines, or a spot to dash in for a delicious treat that refuels as they prepare to tackle the next task.

“We love our location in a bustling retail hub on the way to OR Tambo International Airport. It’s the perfect stop off point for everyone, from young professionals to families and casual shoppers,” Leah says.

The store’s design is part of the experience. Look forward to gorgeous features like soaring double-volume ceilings that drench the store in natural light, paired with sculptural pendant lighting that instantly sets a striking, modern mood. “You’re welcome to grab a seat at our comfy bistro seats or, if you’re meeting someone for a work conversation or a catch-up, why not settle in one of our private booths,” Leah says.

These are also a great option for people who need to focus on work – although they may prefer to settle in at the large community table, designed to allow people to share ideas, spark conversations and enjoy a community vibe. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor working space, perfect for those who thrive in fresh air or want to linger a little longer with their favourite drink. “This is a space that invites you to linger a little longer, to share a moment, to relax and connect,” Leah says, adding that it takes its inspiration from international coffee houses. It’s modern and warm, sophisticated yet familiar; a blend of everything South Africans love, with a distinctly cosmopolitan feel – the kind of store you might expect to see in the coffee loving capitals of the world.

Leah says that the opening of the East Rand’s first Starbucks marks an important milestone on the brand’s expansion journey – but the store is more than a dot on the map. “It’s about allowing more people to get to know the Starbucks experience; an experience that lets you know that you’re part of something special and meaningful,” she concludes.