Partner Article
Meet the entrepreneurial twins driving an Airbnb-style revolution in London kitchen space
The founders of the UK’s first online marketplace for kitchen space, Kitchup, are plotting an Airbnb-style revolution for the capital’s kitchen space after building up the largest network of commercial kitchen space in London.
Entrepreneurial twins Charlie and Emma Jones, who founded the company back in 2015, have partnered with the likes of the Nationwide Caterers Association and Startup Direct to help food startups capitalise on the boom in convenience food brought about by the likes of Deliveroo and UberEats.
With the food to go market set to treble by 2020, the twins question whether restaurants and startups have the capacity to deal with demand and are preaching a more flexible and economical use of available kitchen space in the capital through their platform.
“We want to encourage a more collaborative and resourceful food community that has social, environmental and economic benefits for all involved,” explained Charlie. “We have already built up the largest network of commercial kitchen space in London, and we’re only just getting started.”
Potential space that could be utilised more efficiently by food entrepreneurs includes traditional facilities such as a coffee shop’s commercial bakery or more creative spaces such as a church or public building.
The company has already helped food startups which have outgrown home kitchens and pop-up spaces to scale by providing them with more flexible space along with bespoke business advice.
Charlie and Emma are now plotting a fundraise as they look to develop their technology base and roll-out their services across the UK.
Outlining their overall vision, Emma said: “With continuous innovation in the food industry we hope to bring more choice and flexibility to kitchen space, supporting people on their food journey and helping businesses thrive.”
Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →
Enjoy the read? Get Bdaily delivered.
Sign up to receive our popular morning London email for free.
Raising the bar to boost North East growth
Navigating the messy middle of business growth
We must make it easier to hire young people
Why community-based care is key to NHS' future
Culture, confidence and creativity in the North East
Putting in the groundwork to boost skills
£100,000 milestone drives forward STEM work
Restoring confidence for the economic road ahead
Ready to scale? Buy-and-build offers opportunity
When will our regional economy grow?
Creating a thriving North East construction sector
Why investors are still backing the North East