21 Jun 2026 The Vida e Caffè store/y – from one to 400
SA’s coffee scene is booming, and the story of Vida e Caffè hitting 400 stores shows how local brands are scaling up with smart partnerships, tech-savvy delivery, and a strong sense of identity….
Vida e Caffè has opened its 400th store in Cape Town, growing from a single store in the Mother City into an international brand.
The company started in 2001 and drew inspiration from the street cafés of Portugal, infusing those stylings with African energy. Vida e caffè means “coffee and life” in Portuguese.
The new store opened its doors at The Exchange, 15 Lower Long Street, Cape Town, and is just minutes away from where the first Vida e caffè store opened nearly 25 years ago in Kloof Street.
Kloof Street was ranked the coolest street in Africa and among the 30 coolest streets in the world by Time Out in 2025, known for its mix of heritage and hipster vibes, and iconic Victorian façades.
Vida said that the new location highlights the brand’s collective efforts, which include franchise partners, team members, suppliers, strategic partners and customers.
From a single neighbourhood coffee shop, Vida has grown into an international brand, with locations in Ghana, Mauritius, Zambia, Eswatini, Botswana, Namibia and Angola.
“Reaching 400 stores is a proud moment for us, but what makes it truly special is an opportunity to recognise the people who made it possible,” said Darren Levy, CEO of Vida e caffè.
“This achievement belongs to the thousands of individuals who have contributed to our success over the past 25 years, from franchise partners and store teams to suppliers, strategic partners and loyal customers.”
The brand, however, is not resting on its laurels and will continue to grow through investment in its people, coffee, and additional stores.
The company has undergone growth projects in recent years. This included the acquisition of the healthy restaurant chain Sweetbeet in 2021, which has locations in the Western Cape and Gauteng.
The company has also partnered extensively with other companies, including complimentary coffee for Lift Airline customers and the installation of Vida coffee bars in SPARs and Exclusive Books stores.
The brand also offers forecourt services, corporate partnerships, food trucks and drive-thru coffee locations.
Local competition is heating up
Vida isn’t alone in riding the coffee wave.
- Plato: From a container store in Centurion to over 100 locations, plus a UK expansion and a coffee academy in Cape Town.
- Xpresso Café: Known for its R14 coffees, now at 80 outlets with plans for 20 more in 2026.
- Seattle Coffee Company: Over 300 stores, with expansion planned through 2028, originally imported from London but now firmly local.
This competitive landscape shows that South Africa’s appetite for coffee is still growing, and brands are finding different niches- from budget-friendly to premium experiences.
They are finding growth and success through:
- Scale through partnerships: Collaborations with airlines, retailers, and bookshops extend reach.
- Diversify formats: Drive-thrus, forecourts, and food trucks keep brands visible and accessible.
- Leverage tech: Apps and delivery platforms are essential for modern convenience.
- Celebrate heritage: A strong brand story rooted in culture builds loyalty and differentiation.
Source: BusinessTech.co.za