Andrew Johnston, Director of Development | Photo credit: Columbus Café & Co Canada

Columbus Café & Co has appointed former Le Duff Group executive Andrew Johnston as its new Director of Development in Canada. 
 

The French coffee chain opened its first Canadian outlet in Montreal in 2020 and now operates 17 stores across Quebec and Ontario. 

In a LinkedIn post, Columbus Café & Co said Johnston will play a key role in implementing its growth strategy and strengthening the brand’s position in the Canadian market. Recent outlet growth has been boosted by a partnership with bookshop chain Indigo, with Columbus Café & Co currently operating five in-store concessions with the Toronto-based retailer. 

Prior to joining Columbus Café & Co, Johnston served as Director of Finance and Development for Le Duff Group subsidiary Au Pain Doré which operates the Brioche Doree, Au Pain Dore and Michels Bakery café chains in North America. Alongside annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting, the role included real-estate negotiations, lease administration and construction project management. 

Johnston also previously worked as General Manager for Brioche Doree from 2005-06, laying the groundwork for the French chain’s Canadian launch in Montréal in 2006. 

“Andrew’s impressive track record and passion for the food industry make him a major asset to our team. His dynamic leadership and innovative vision will be a key driver in achieving our ambitious development and partnership goals,” Columbus Café & Co said in a statement. 

Founded in 1994, Columbus Café & Co is one of the largest coffee shop chains in France, with more than 200 stores. Alongside Canada, the business has stores in Belgium, Luxembourg, Portugal, Bahrain and Kuwait.   

In September 2022 Columbus Café & Co set a target to reach 500 stores globally by the end of 2027.