On September 9, 2026, French coffee-shop chain Columbus Café expanded its footprint in the Alpes-Maritimes by opening its fifth location in Nice, establishing a presence in the regional urban market with a 140-square-meter venue capable of seating 70 patrons, including 30 outdoor terrace spaces.
Expanding the French Coffee Shop Model in Nice
The latest Nice establishment highlights a broader growth strategy across the region by the Paris-headquartered brand. With a network nearing 260 franchised locations throughout France and international markets, the brand continues to capture downtown retail space.
The sustained growth relies heavily on experienced operators rising through the ranks. In Nice, franchisee Virginie Millereau oversees local operations after a career with the company that began in 2006, progressing from store management to multi-unit oversight before becoming a franchisee in 2024.
The Internal Ascent of Franchise Leadership
Franchise networks rely on internal talent retention to maintain operational standards during scaling periods. Millereau’s trajectory—from managing locations in Nice, Bordeaux, and Lyon to taking over the Fnac point of sale in Nice and opening a coffee shop at 66, avenue Jean-Médecin—underscores a pathway for dedicated employees. Frédéric Pastur, General Director of Columbus Café, noted that leaders like Millereau embody the brand’s core values of excellence and combativeness.
This structural flexibility allows established coffee-shop chains to compete. By backing long-term personnel with localized financial partnerships, the brand secures real estate in southern French markets.
Consumer Trends and Urban Retail Recovery
The addition of a 140-square-meter footprint with outdoor seating reflects consumer preferences for convivial dining spaces in city centers.
What are your thoughts on the evolution of coffee shop franchises in traditional European city centers? Do you prefer large international chains or independent local roasters when grabbing a morning espresso? Let’s talk about it in the comments below.
