ESS, specialist provider of foodservice and FM to military establishments across the UK, has collaborated with Peabodys Coffee to open an exciting new outlet at the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom.

The first-to-market Peabodys on the Defence estate brings organic, Fairtrade coffee and freshly prepared artisan foods to the community on site, further enhancing the varied catering and retail offers already available.

The venue blends the best of Peabodys Coffee with the exciting Italian street food experience of the company’s artisan food brand Red Basil, promising an exceptional customer experience for all. The space is light, bright and welcoming, providing a premium café offer and an environment where service personnel can relax and socialise.

Visitors are greeted by friendly, expertly trained baristas, serving a selection of hot and cold beverages, including organic and Fairtrade certified coffee ethically sourced from growers committed to sustainable practices.

Customers will find an array of freshly prepared foods to suit every taste, including focaccias, sandwiches, salads, pastries and healthy snacks. The Red Basil menu features dishes inspired by Italian street food and crafted daily, including cooked-to-order artisan pasta with signature homemade sauces, hand-rolled pinsa, golden arancini and classic lasagne.

The outlet complements the catering and retail services already delivered by ESS at the Academy, enhancing the workplace experience for the site population. These include mess dining facilities, the Grass Roots restaurant, a convenience store and the first fully frictionless store on the UK Defence estate.

Our aim is to create a welcoming haven for Academy students and staff alike – a perfect spot for relaxing, socialising or grabbing a quick bite between lectures. We’re delighted to open our doors and look forward to serving the defence community with the best of Peabodys and Red Basil.

Claudia Mascino, Managing Director – Peabodys Coffee

We’re always looking for innovative new ways to delight our customers and bring contemporary high street experiences inside the wire – as part of this commitment, we’re thrilled to bring Peabodys Coffee to the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom. This bold and visionary concept is proven in other sectors of our business, and I’m confident that the combination of high-quality drinks and a fresh, vibrant food offer will be very popular on site.

Bob Gray, Managing Director – ESS Defence, Marine & Aerospace