Appliances Archives - WAM Engineering Services

Case Study: Coffi Lab Pontcanna

WAM Engineering — Wed, 20 May 2026 08:09:33 +0000

Case Study: Coffi Lab Pontcanna

Some Coffee Shop openings are about growth. Others are about coming home.

For Coffi Lab, the launch of its Pontcanna site in Cardiff is both.

This is not just another location. It is the one that founder James Shapland always had in mind when he first built the brand. A Coffee Shop rooted in his own community. A space that reflects everything Coffi Lab stands for.

Born from a simple idea to create welcoming, dog-friendly Coffee shops that feel like a home from home, Coffi Lab has grown into one of Wales’ most recognisable independent coffee brands.

Each “Lab” is designed to be relaxed, inclusive and slightly different. A place where muddy paws and wagging tails are just as welcome as laptops and flat whites.

Bringing the Vision to Life

That personality runs through every detail. From the layout and materials to the way customers move through the space. The Pontcanna store needed to capture all of this while delivering the performance required for a busy, high-volume coffee shop.

To make that happen, Coffi Lab partnered with WAM Engineering Services.

Kyle James, Manager at WAM, had worked with the team on many of their other stores. That existing relationship meant there was already a clear understanding of what makes Coffi Lab unique.

“Coffi Lab is not a standard coffee shop brand,” said Kyle. “Each store has its own character, but it still needs to work operationally. Pontcanna was especially important because of the personal connection. We knew we had to get it right.”

WAM was invited to tender for the project and was tasked with turning Coffi Lab’s established design concept into a fully functioning coffee shop and service environment.

Solving Challenges Behind the Scenes

While there is a template behind each Coffi Lab site, the Pontcanna building required careful adaptation. The team refined layouts, adjusted service points and ensured the equipment aligned perfectly with the power, water and drainage.

These decisions directly impact how quickly drinks are served, how smoothly staff can work and how well the wash-up area performs during peak periods.

One of the biggest challenges was the length and overall size of a dedicated dishwashing area in the original plans. Rather than compromise, WAM designed bespoke tabling to fit in a compact room which would also house a Hobart passthrough dishwasher. This created a clear separation between front and back of house while maintaining efficiency.

Fabrication presented another challenge.

Due to a much smaller access, bespoke stainless steel elements had to be manufactured in sections, delivered to the site and assembled in place. This sectional approach ensured a precise fit without sacrificing durability or finish.

At the front of house, a bespoke drop-in counter refrigeration unit was cut and fitted on site. This detail supports Coffi Lab’s food display offering while maintaining the clean, considered aesthetic that customers expect from the brand.

A Partnership Built for Performance

The equipment package was carefully selected to support Coffi Lab’s day-to-day operations. It included Hoshizaki upright and undercounter fridges and freezers, a Hoshizaki undercounter ice machine, a Merrychef speed oven, Marco beverage systems and a customer-facing water dispenser.

An Aircell grab-and-go fridge was also installed, giving customers quick access to fresh food and drinks. This is a key part of the Coffi Lab experience, especially in busy neighbourhood locations like Pontcanna.

From the first meeting on 5 January through to installation and handover on 24 and 25 February, the project moved quickly. Close communication between WAM, Coffi Lab and contractors ensured that challenges were addressed early and progress remained steady.

“There were a lot of moving parts, but that is where a partnership approach makes the difference,” said Kyle. “We were in constant contact with the team, adapting as needed and keeping everything aligned. Seeing it all come together in Pontcanna was brilliant.”

For Coffi Lab, this site is more than just another opening. It is a reflection of their journey. From a single idea to a growing network of coffee shops that put community, quality and character first.

For WAM Engineering Services, it is another example of how the right planning, experience and collaboration can turn a strong concept into a high-performing reality.

For hospitality operators, it highlights a simple truth. A great coffee shop is not just about what customers see. It is about what happens behind the scenes.

And when that works seamlessly, everything else follows.

For more information on our design and installation services, contact:

▷ office@wam-engineering.co.uk

► 01792 712442

The post Case Study: Coffi Lab Pontcanna appeared first on WAM Engineering Services.

Case Study: Coffi Lab Monmouth

WAM Engineering — Tue, 19 May 2026 09:57:07 +0000

Case Study: Coffi Lab Monmouth

When flooding hits a hospitality business, the impact is immediate and severe. Equipment is lost. Service stops. Revenue disappears overnight.

That was the reality for Coffi Lab in Monmouth, the original store that helped launch the brand.

Following severe flooding caused by Storm Claudia in November 2025, the Coffi Lab Monmouth was left devastated. Fixtures, fittings and vital foodservice equipment were destroyed. For a business built on community, character and consistency, the stakes could not have been higher.

What followed was a clear example of fast action, strong relationships and experienced engineering support making the difference.

At the centre of that response was WAM Engineering Services.

A rapid response when it mattered most

The Monmouth store is not just another Coffi Lab location. It is where the story began. The first “Lab”. The place that set the tone for everything that followed.

Known for its relaxed, dog-friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere, Coffi Lab has built a loyal customer base across every location, and the Monmouth store holds a special place in that journey.

When the floods hit, WAM’s Kyle James did not wait to be asked.

“The night the flooding happened, I reached out to Rob King at Coffi Lab straight away,” said Kyle. “We had worked together on many other projects, so it was about offering support and being ready if they needed us.”

That call led to immediate action. Within days, WAM began sourcing replacement equipment based on what had been lost.

One key challenge was the grab-and-go refrigeration unit. These are typically made to order and can take up to four weeks to deliver. In a situation where time was critical, that was not an option.

“We managed to have a unit manufactured and paid for within four days,” Kyle explained. “It was ready for delivery almost immediately. That kind of turnaround is not typical, but we knew how important it was to get them trading again.”

Adapting to a full refurbishment

While initial plans focused on getting the coffee shop operational as quickly as possible, the scale of the damage led to a different decision. Following assessment by an insurance loss adjuster, a full refurbishment was approved.

This shifted the project from rapid replacement to a complete rebuild.

WAM worked closely with Coffi Lab and contractors throughout the process. One of the key stages was ensuring the building was fully dried out and ready for installation. Timing was critical. Equipment could not be installed too early, but delays would push reopening further back.

By maintaining clear communication with all parties, WAM ensured the project stayed on track and installation was scheduled and completed on 23 February 2026.

Rebuilding a coffee shop that means everything

The new Monmouth store was fitted with a full range of commercial catering and refrigeration equipment designed to support Coffi Lab’s day-to-day operations.

This included a grab-and-go refrigeration unit, upright fridges and freezers, beverage systems, a new dishwasher and a bespoke drop-in counter chiller.

Each element was selected to balance performance, reliability and efficiency. The aim was not just to replace what had been lost, but to create a space that could perform even better.

As with every Coffi Lab site, the layout supports both customer experience and operational flow. From quick service for takeaway customers to a comfortable environment for those staying longer, every detail plays a role.

Partnership, planning and performance

Delivering the Monmouth refurbishment alongside the Pontcanna opening placed significant demands on all involved. Multiple projects. Tight timelines. High expectations.

Both were completed successfully.

“There were a lot of moving parts across both sites,” said Kyle. “The key was communication and planning. We worked closely with Coffi Lab and the contractors at every stage, making sure everything was ready when it needed to be.”

For Coffi Lab, reopening Monmouth was about more than restoring a coffee shop. It was about restoring a key part of their identity.

For WAM Engineering Services, it demonstrated the value of acting quickly, thinking practically and working as a true partner to hospitality businesses.

Supporting hospitality when it counts

Flooding, equipment failure and unexpected disruption are realities many operators face. How quickly you recover often depends on the support around you.

This project shows what is possible with the right expertise in place.

From emergency response to full refurbishment, WAM Engineering Services continues to support Coffee Shops, cafés, bars, restaurants and hospitality venues across South & West Wales, Bristol, South West and beyond.

For more information on our design and installation services, contact:

▷ office@wam-engineering.co.uk

► 01792 712442

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Case Study: Saffron Ddraig

WAM Engineering — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:26:18 +0000

Case Study: Saffron Ddraig

Opening a new restaurant is never just about the food. Behind every great menu sits a kitchen that has to work hard, day in and day out. For Naman, founder of Saffron Ddraig in St Thomas, Swansea, getting that kitchen right was essential. His vision was clear from the outset: a modern space capable of producing authentic Indian cuisine, made from scratch using hand-blended spices and recipes passed down over generations.

To make that vision a reality, he turned to WAM Engineering Services.

A collaborative approach from day one

From the first conversations in August, WAM Engineering Services took the time to understand exactly what Saffron Ddraig needed to be. Project Lead Kyle James worked closely with Naman, not just as a supplier, but as a partner. Together, they discussed menu flow, covers, peak service times and how the kitchen would be used in practice.

Space was tight, which meant every decision mattered. Drawing on his experience of commercial kitchen design and installation, Kyle advised on the most efficient layout, ensuring the kitchen could handle demand without feeling cramped. Several layouts were produced and refined, with adjustments made to canopy sizes, equipment positioning and workflow. It was a lengthy process, but one focused on getting it right rather than rushing to install.

That attention to detail paid off.

High-quality equipment, sourced smartly

Thanks to WAM Engineering Services’ long-standing relationships with leading manufacturers, Naman was able to access high-end commercial catering equipment at very favourable rates. This also opened up finance options, allowing flexibility to switch brand ranges late in the process without compromising on quality.

The final specification included a comprehensive mix of bespoke fabrication and trusted brand equipment, all chosen to support a busy hospitality environment.

Bespoke stainless steel fabrication was designed to fit the small kitchen perfectly, including a dishwashing table with sink and pre-rinse, a dedicated prep sink and prep table, and a brand-new canopy and extract system with matching fans. Stainless steel wall cladding completed the space, giving a clean, durable finish that’s easy to maintain.

On the equipment side, Hobart washware was installed, including a glass washer and an undercounter dishwasher to keep service running smoothly. Foster refrigeration units provided reliable cold storage, from the saladette prep unit and two-door counter fridge through to chest and upright freezers, all in stainless steel to maintain a consistent look.

Additional equipment included a Gamko upright bottle cooler, Blizzard microwave, and a full Lincat cooking range featuring fryers, a six-burner range and a four-burner hob. Prep was supported by Sammic equipment, including a stick blender, juice blender and food processor with attachments. Even the smaller but essential details were covered, from fly killers to commercial cleaning chemicals, detergents and rinse aids.

One contractor, total peace of mind

Crucially for Naman, WAM Engineering Services managed the entire kitchen installation. All plumbing and electrics were run by trusted contractors, coordinated by WAM, removing the stress of juggling multiple trades. This joined-up approach helped keep the project on track and ensured everything met commercial standards.

Despite last-minute changes and refinements, the kitchen was completed, signed off and ready for use by 3 December.

A kitchen built for the future

Today, Saffron Ddraig is more than just a restaurant. It’s a place where ancient recipes meet modern hospitality, offering students a 10% discount and even featuring a small cinema room downstairs. Behind the scenes, the kitchen quietly supports it all, designed to cope with demand while giving chefs the space and tools they need to cook properly.

For WAM Engineering Services, this project is a strong example of what they do best: listening first, designing thoughtfully, and delivering commercial kitchen installations that work in the real world.

For restaurant owners, chefs and facilities managers planning a new kitchen or refurbishment, the lesson is simple. When the kitchen works, everything else falls into place.

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HostMilano Visit

WAM Engineering — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 13:17:37 +0000

Host Milano visit

At WAM Engineering Services, staying ahead of the game isn’t just a goal; it’s how we do business.

That’s why Kyle James recently travelled to Italy to attend HostMilano, the world’s leading exhibition for the catering and hospitality sector.

Over two packed days in Milan, Kyle met with major global manufacturers, built new relationships with UK-based distributors, and got a first-hand look at the latest innovations in commercial kitchen technology.

From brand-new equipment launches to insights into global foodservice trends, the event was a masterclass in where the industry is heading, and how WAM plans to lead from the front.

“HostMilano is a melting pot of innovation, technology and global expertise,” said Kyle. “It was invaluable to see what’s coming next, meet the people behind the products, and explore how we can bring the very best solutions back to our customers here in the UK.

”HostMilano is internationally recognised as a hub for foodservice professionals, drawing brands, engineers, and decision-makers from every corner of the world. It tracks emerging consumer trends, showcases new product categories, and highlights best practices through live demonstrations, industry talks and technology showcases.

For WAM, the trip wasn’t about ticking a box, it was about deepening our knowledge, expanding our supplier network, and ensuring we’re equipped to offer our customers the most efficient, future-ready solutions available.

“We’re always looking for ways to improve what we offer,” said Alistair Green, Owner of WAM Engineering Services. “Whether it’s cutting-edge kit, more sustainable equipment options, or smarter kitchen layouts, events like HostMilano give us the insights and access to keep raising the bar for our clients.”

The partnerships and insights gained in Milan will directly benefit WAM’s customers across hospitality, catering, food retail and beyond. From better lead times and equipment choices to early access to new technologies, WAM’s commitment to learning and evolving is part of what sets the company apart.

“This trip was about investing in our future and our customers’ success,” added Kyle. “We’re not just installing kitchens, we’re helping hospitality businesses build for the long term, and that means always keeping one eye on what’s next.”

To find out how WAM Engineering Services can help future-proof your commercial kitchen, visit www.wam-engineering.co.uk

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Case Study: Baglan Bakery

WAM Engineering — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 13:20:11 +0000

Case Study: Baglan Bakery

When Baglan Bakery needed to upgrade its equipment and layout to meet growing demand, it turned to WAM Engineering Services to deliver a seamless solution, and the results are as impressive as the freshly baked goods on display.

Working closely with Lisa Evans and the Baglan Bakery team, WAM supplied and installed a range of new kitchen and front-of-house equipment across two carefully planned phases. This approach allowed the bakery to continue operating while other works were being carried out, with minimal disruption to staff and customers.

From the very first meeting, WAM’s team, led by Kyle James and Ben Jones, focused on understanding the vision for the refurbishment in order to recommend the best equipment.

The goal was to support faster, more efficient service while also giving the front-of-house area a clean, professional new look that reflects the quality of Baglan Bakery’s products.

The transformation included brand-new display fridges and cabinets to showcase Baglan’s signature bread, cakes, and pastries, alongside a custom-built stainless-steel work counter with integrated sink and under-counter storage. In the back-of-house prep and wash-up areas, WAM installed high-performance, commercial-grade catering equipment designed to keep up with the demands of a busy bakery.

“We’re really proud to have worked with Baglan Bakery on such a prestigious local project,” said Kyle James, Project Manager at WAM Engineering. “The space now works harder for the team, it looks fantastic, and the equipment is built to last. It’s exactly the kind of job we love, working alongside passionate food professionals to help them grow.

”This latest project demonstrates WAM’s ability to deliver tailored engineering solutions not just for pubs and restaurants, but for independent food businesses and bakeries as well.

“Baglan Bakery has a brilliant reputation, and it was an honour to be trusted with their upgrade,” said Alistair Green, Owner of WAM Engineering Services. “We took the time to understand their goals and built a solution that was practical, efficient and future-ready. Lisa and her team had a clear vision, and it was great to help bring that to life.”

Now fully refurbished and re-equipped, Baglan Bakery is ready for the next chapter in its growth, with a front-of-house area that showcases its products beautifully, and a kitchen setup that supports fast, consistent service.

To find out more about how WAM Engineering Services can help upgrade your bakery, café or hospitality venue, visit www.wam-engineering.co.uk

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How One Repair Call Turned into a Major Contract for WAM Engineering Services

WAM Engineering — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:55:08 +0000

How one repair call turned into a major contract for WAM Engineering Services

What started as a single call to fix a broken air conditioning unit in Llanelli has turned into a thriving, long-term partnership between WAM Engineering Services and one of the leading Domino’s Pizza franchisees.

For more than 12 months, Swansea-based WAM has been the preferred servicing, repair and maintenance partner for multiple Domino’s sites across the region, providing rapid-response emergency repairs, annual servicing, and planned preventive maintenance (PPM) on a wide range of essential kitchen equipment.

The relationship began with an urgent request: an air conditioning unit at the Llanelli store was out of action. The franchisee had already been told by their previous engineering company that the unit was beyond repair.

“When we got there, we took a proper look and found it could be fixed on the spot,” explained Alistair Green, owner of WAM Engineering. “It was a great opportunity to show what we’re about – work hard, think smart, and make a good first impression. That one job opened the door to everything that’s followed.”

Since that first visit, WAM has become the go-to team for the franchisee, who operates several busy Domino’s sites across South Wales, with more openings in the pipeline.

The WAM team now maintains and repairs a full range of kitchen essentials, including:

Walk-in fridges and freezers
Make lines
Undercounter fridges
Gantry lights
Conveyor pizza ovens
And much more, working with all Dominos-approved kitchen brands

From late-night breakdowns to routine servicing, WAM ensures every store is ready to deliver hot, fresh pizza without the stress of unexpected downtime.

Alistair believes this partnership is proof that doing the right job, the right way, the first time pays dividends. “If we’d walked away from that air conditioning unit like the last company did, we’d never have had this opportunity. Instead, we rolled our sleeves up, fixed the problem, and proved we were worth trusting. Now we look after multiple sites and have become part of the team they rely on.”

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Case Study: The Shed, Swansea.

WAM Engineering — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 15:23:29 +0000

Case Study: The Shed, Swansea

WAM Engineering Services, based in South Wales, has been providing expert catering equipment maintenance and repair across the region for years, and now, they’re proud to be supporting one of Swansea’s newest restaurant brands: The Shed.

Supporting the Engine Room of the Kitchen

Since partnering with The Shed four months ago, WAM Engineering has been delivering Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) across all major kitchen equipment, including Rational ovens, Blue Seal gas ranges, walk-in fridges, under-counter refrigeration units, dishwashers, ice machines and gantry lights.

The team also provides fast-response Reactive Maintenance to minimise downtime when something breaks.

“Everything we do is about keeping kitchens running,” says Alistair Green, owner of WAM Engineering Services. “Restaurants like The Shed need to know they’ve got reliable, professional support in place when equipment fails — because in this business, every hour counts.”

It’s not just about fixing things when they go wrong. WAM’s scheduled maintenance helps prevent problems before they happen, keeping commercial kitchens working efficiently and safely.

They also carry out air conditioning servicing, PAT testing and electrical safety checks — giving restaurant managers one less thing to worry about.

Trusted by Chefs, Recommended by Peers

WAM Engineering first came to The Shed through a personal recommendation — the Head Chef at another restaurant, Sgwd Gwladus in Pontneddfechan, who had already experienced their service and suggested them without hesitation.

“That kind of word-of-mouth is the best endorsement we could ask for,” says Alistair. “It means we’re doing something right — showing up on time, doing the job properly, and keeping kitchens running smoothly.”

With engineers on hand for emergency call-outs and regular servicing, WAM has become a trusted part of the restaurant’s support network.

Responsive. Reliable. Local.

WAM Engineering Services has built a reputation across South Wales for its same-day response to urgent repair work. Whether it’s a broken combi oven or a fridge failing mid-service, the team acts fast to get businesses back on track.

That responsiveness is a big reason why more hospitality businesses are turning to WAM for their catering equipment maintenance in Swansea and beyond.

“We know how stressful it is when vital equipment breaks down during a busy shift,” says Alistair. “Our goal is to take that stress away by being reliable, responsive and easy to work with.”

Looking Ahead

As The Shed continues to thrive in Swansea’s competitive food scene, WAM Engineering Services will be there in the background — helping make sure everything behind the pass runs as smoothly as everything out front.

For hospitality businesses looking for dependable catering equipment maintenance, fast repairs and proactive support, WAM Engineering Services offers the kind of service that chefs and managers can count on.

“Our job is to support yours,” says Alistair. “Whether you’re a fine dining restaurant or a busy café, we’re here to keep your kitchen running.”

For more information on our services, please contact:

► office@wam-engineering.co.uk

▷ 01792 712442

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