A MARRIED couple who opened a business during the coronavirus crisis are now looking to the future after coming out the other side of the pandemic.

Alan Draper and Martina Agho-Draper purchased the 28-year-old Chef’s Eating House, in Colchester, in December 2020, before rebranding it Café Plus+.

Head chef Alan commands more than 30 years of experience in the catering industry, while Martina has 15 years’ experience in business administration and consultancy.

Since taking over the site and weathering a stark financial storm due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the duo’s venture has gone from strength to strength.

Using their combined expertise to propel the business forward, Café Plus+ now boasts a big presence at its Highwoods base.

The couple have even been able to launch a second eatery at The Octagon in the city centre and there are even plans to expand further.

Alan and Martina have also upgraded appliances and committed to changing all their packaging to ensure it is eco-friendly.

Alan and Martina said: “It has been hard work with very long hours, and a challenging but rewarding experience in transforming the café to where it is now.”

To find out more about Café Plus+, which offers discounts to Armed Forces, NHS and Emergency Service personnel, visit cafeplus.uk.