Baked bean is new takeaway with a difference in Ironbridge
A new takeaway bakery and coffee shop has opened its doors in Ironbridge following support from a start-up grant through Telford & Wrekin Council’s Pride in Our High Street programme.
Owners Adam Purnell, widely known as the Shropshire Lad, and Tess Sharp have launched the venture, named Baked Bean, situated on the ground floor of 1 Waterloo Street. The duo also operates the successful Embers Café within the town.
The business focuses on locally produced artisan baked goods, including pastries and cakes alongside cold sandwiches and fairtrade coffees. While Ironbridge is home to several cafes, Baked Bean aims to provide a unique service to the area.
All bakery products are made in-house by Head Baker Kieron Smith, while the shop is managed by Bruce Sharp, who previously managed Embers.
The establishment emphasises the use of locally sourced ingredients to support regional producers. It has also formed a partnership with Hundred House Coffee, a local roastery known for high-quality, fairtrade beans. In addition to food and drink, the takeaway features a retail section selling packaged local jams, chutneys, coffee beans, and merchandise such as mugs and tote bags.
Adam Purnell said: “Building on the success of Embers Café, we want to create a welcoming, modern take-away shop in the heart of Ironbridge that celebrates local craftsmanship in baking, ethical coffee, as well as providing exceptional customer experience.
“Baked Bean will combine the warmth of a traditional bakery with the style and quality of a boutique coffee house and we aim to attract both local residents and tourists visiting Ironbridge — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its charm.”
He added: “We already have a thriving business, Embers, and a following of loyal customers. At Baked Bean all of the produce will be made locally and our Head Baker has a first-class degree in pastry and bread making. This will ensure thar our products set us apart from what is already on offer in Ironbridge. Our coffee is all fairtrade and supplied by local business – Hundred House, which will elevate our offering.”
The Pride in Our High Street grant assisted with the initial set-up of the space, including painting, signage, and the installation of a new coffee machine and till system.
Councillor Ollie Vickers, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for the Economy and Transport, said: “Ironbridge has many cafes already but the unique nature of Baked Bean will hopefully bring in both locals and visitors to the area. We’re pleased to support Adam and Tess with this move and are sure that it will generate lots of interest in the town.”
