Thanasis Michael: The Cypriot in Manchester with a £1.2 million business

Michael’s Coffee House, owned by 34-year-old Thanasis Michael, is a thriving café business with two locations in Manchester city centre, now valued at an impressive £1.2 million. But it was no easy feat.

Michael, originally from Cyprus, moved to Manchester in 2013 to escape the economic crisis in his homeland. There, he began working at various popular coffee chains, including Starbucks and the M&S Café in the Arndale Centre. It was during his time at Starbucks that the idea of opening his own café first took root.

Encouraged by a coffee shop franchise owner from Greece, Thanasis scouted several locations in Manchester. However, when the potential partner stopped responding, he took a bold step and decided to go it alone.

The first café in the Royal Exchange

Despite facing multiple bank loan rejections, Thanasis remained steadfast. Eventually, one bank recognized the potential in his business plan and approved a loan, allowing him to open Michael’s Coffee House in August 2017 with financial support from his cousin.

The Royal Exchange location quickly gained popularity, thanks to its high-quality coffee and an enticing selection of pastries, croissants, and signature drinks like the Pistachio Latte. Despite challenges, including his cousin's decision to exit the business post-pandemic, Thanasis took full ownership and continued to expand.

The new location in the Arndale Centre

In 2024, buoyed by the café's success, Thanasis opened a second location in the Arndale Centre on December 2. Today, both locations employ a total of 24 staff members.

Reflecting on his journey, Thanasis credits persistence and self-belief as key ingredients to his success. "Everything has been through hard work, working day, night, and weekends," he said. "You need to fight for your dreams and never take no for an answer."

As Michael’s Coffee House continues to grow, Thanasis remains committed to delivering top-quality coffee and an exceptional customer experience, proving that with determination and passion, success is always within reach.

(Source: yahoo!news)