Under the focus of big city Glasgow, iCafe stands out for a couple of reasons. Including great coffee and giving young people job opportunities. I would like to mention iCafe, which was founded by entrepreneur Umer Ashraf Malik. He has been in the news for his unique business model and motivation to view young talent from a different angle.
Umer Ashraf Malik: iCafe visionary
Umer Ashraf Malik was born in October 1984 and started with a passion for entrepreneurship. He opened the first iCafe in Glasgow on Great Western Road, back in 2005. He envisioned a space offering high-quality coffee, alongside Internet services, to an audience of tech industry professionals. Malik has enabled the growth of iCafe along multiple sites in Glasgow over countless years located on Sauchiehall Street, Woodlands Road, and Great Western Road to name a few
Acknowledgement for Youth Employment initiatives
For his efforts in helping young people’s career paths. Malik received the title of Youth Employer of the Month from Skills Development Scotland. The award recognizes iCafe’s contribution to creating job opportunities and training for young people in Scotland. Malik is currently paying for Hospitality Modern Apprenticeships; the company also has several youthful staff on those schemes. Famous for its forward-thinking, the business saw 20-year-old ex-apprentice Jenna Bellshaw quickly being moved up to a supervisor position, highlighting the company’s growth opportunities.
Information about the government scheme
This is in line with the commitment to youth employment across the country by Government Malik. He has supported Skills Development Scotland events that encourage employers to hire and support young people. His involvement highlights the need for businesses and governments to realize a partnership in tackling youth unemployment.
Growing media attention
The media, as well as investors, quickly took notice of the success that iCafe was experiencing. Malik went on to appear in the 2012 BBC television series Dragons’ Den. Where entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne agreed to a £80,000 investment. This investment was part of iCafe’s attempt to expand its presence and hopes now for nine outlets throughout Glasgow. As the brand grows in a competitive coffee shop environment. Exposure from the show lent the perception of the cafe as an up-and-coming brand.
Financial Overview
At the end of June 2022, iCafe Limited had £193,302 in total assets and £266,518 in total liabilities. It had nine employees, down 36% from a year earlier. These numbers signal a difficult financial period, but ongoing operations mean the business still has room to breathe and adjust to a competitive marketplace.
Third-place prize Includes Community Engagement
In addition to growing a business, iCafe has received support for doing things that engage the community. In recognition of his pioneering approach and contribution to the local economy. Malik won raised award in the 2012 Scottish Asian Business Awards Entrepreneur Of The Year. Finally, iCafe has built a reputation for high-quality drinks and excellent customer service. Gaining a loyal following that is adding to its stake in the cafe scene of Glasgow.
Future Prospects
In the future, iCafe seeks to build upon its success by retaining its focus on employment and outreach. Hopefully, we can be franchised in other places, that’s [Malik] vision as well — or take the iCafe experience and tours there.” With a strong focus on quality of service and cultivating a great working environment, iCafe is set to continue its part as one of the leading hospitality players in Scotland.
