'Nine Squared Belfast will be more than just a coffee shop...it will be a destination where people can gather, relax, and enjoy an immersive coffee experience'

The Northern Ireland coffee house was founded by Sean McDonnell in 2021 when he opened the first location on Monaghan Street in Newry

A local independent coffee house is set to create 10 new jobs in Belfast when it opens its second location in early 2025 following an initial investment of £300,000.

Located in the recently restored Printworks building on Queen Street, Nine Squared Belfast will have seating for 35 guests and bring its signature brews and bakes and unique event experiences to the heart of the city.

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The Printworks, which had long stood as a historic landmark in Belfast, has been...
Owners of Nine Squared Belfast Neil Cole and Sean McDonnell are pictured at the announcement that the local independent coffee house is set to create 10 new jobs in Belfast when it opens its second location in early 2025 following an initial investment of £300,000placeholder image
Owners of Nine Squared Belfast Neil Cole and Sean McDonnell are pictured at the announcement that the local independent coffee house is set to create 10 new jobs in Belfast when it opens its second location in early 2025 following an initial investment of £300,000

The coffee house was founded by Sean McDonnell in 2021 when he opened the first location on Monaghan Street in Newry. Sean, who brings a wealth of experience within the independent coffee industry, has partnered with Newry businessman Neil Cole to open Nine Squared Belfast. Neil has an extensive background in marketing and social media and has held senior global positions with both Meta and TikTok, currently working with the latter.

Sean McDonnell co-owner of Nine Squared Belfast, said: “⁠Nine Squared opened three years ago this week and we are thrilled to announce that our second location will be opening in early 2025. Nine Squared Belfast will be more than just a coffee shop. It will be a destination where people can gather, relax, and enjoy an immersive coffee experience.

"Our mission revolves around four key pillars: Iconic Coffee, Iconic Venue, Iconic Staff, and Iconic People and we’re dedicated to creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, serving exceptional coffee and tray bakes.”

Owners of Nine Squared Belfast Sean McDonnell and Neil Cole are joined by architectural designer, Aoife Mulvenna of Fada Studio, at the announcement that the local independent coffee house is set to create 10 new jobs in Belfast when it opens its second location in early 2025 following an initial investment of £300,000placeholder image
Owners of Nine Squared Belfast Sean McDonnell and Neil Cole are joined by architectural designer, Aoife Mulvenna of Fada Studio, at the announcement that the local independent coffee house is set to create 10 new jobs in Belfast when it opens its second location in early 2025 following an initial investment of £300,000

Neil Cole, co-owner of the Nine Squared Belfast, explained: “We’re proud to be creating a dynamic space that embodies both community and creativity. Nine Squared Belfast is rooted in the 'Third Place' concept – offering people a stylish, welcoming space where connections and conversations thrive and a venue that truly celebrates Belfast’s vibrant culture.

“The Printworks building has been lovingly restored and is the perfect location for our Belfast coffee House. We are excited to be working with a fabulous up and coming architectural designer, Aoife Mulvenna of Fada Studio, who has brought our vision to life.

"It’s a truly unique venue and we’re excited to create a new event space as part of this. We already have some exciting partnerships confirmed with local and world-class brands and will be hosting VIP nights for our customers with some very special guests to look forward to.”

Nine Squared is also a proud accredited Living Wage employer, committed to supporting and empowering its team.

“As one of the few employers in Northern Ireland to offer the Living Wage, we’re focused on creating a work environment that values and uplifts our team. We believe that supporting our people not only strengthens our brand but also creates a positive, engaging environment for our customers,” Sean added.

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