MIKE Plant is a builder by trade but that hasn’t stopped the multi-talented Sale resident from opening a cafe.

The 48-year-old opened the Coffee Stop, situated within the Traders Outlet, around nine months ago and the new business is going from strength to strength.

Mike, who trained as a baker in his early twenties, said his independent business stands out from the crowd for two reasons – price and the personal touch.

“Really we’re a coffee shop but we do sandwiches, homemade cakes, Panini’s – all made fresh every day,” said Mike.

“I think a lot of people would be surprised by our prices because we can be a lot more competitive than some of the big coffee brands because we don’t have the overheads that they do.

“Because we’re in the Traders Outlet we don’t have to pay any business rates and our utility bills are included within our rent – and that’s reflected in our prices.”

Mike also emphasised the importance of independents in a market saturated by big brands that do not offer a personal service and explained why he had chosen to be part of Independents Day.

“Messenger is a local paper we want to aim our business at a local market “A lot of people don’t realise we’re an independent and some people don’t even realise Traders Outlet is here, so we want as many local to be aware of us as possible.”