The opening of Costa’s 400th Drive Thru at Norwich Broadway marks a significant milestone in the evolution of a concept that has grown into a key part of the brand’s nationwide presence. For JWA Architecture, it also represents over a decade of collaboration and a relationship that has developed alongside the Drive Thru programme itself.

Our journey with Costa began in 2011, when we worked together to develop the original Drive Thru concept. At the time, the ambition was clear: to create a format that could deliver the quality and consistency of the Costa experience in a new, accessible way. That early work laid the foundation for what has since become a highly recognisable and scalable model.

Since then, JWA Architecture has remained closely involved, providing development coordination support and construction monitoring across the Drive Thru portfolio. This role has allowed us to contribute not just to individual sites, but to the ongoing refinement and delivery of the concept as it has expanded across the UK.

Reaching 400 Drive Thru locations is a testament to the strength of a collaborative approach, one that balances design intent, operational efficiency, and the practicalities of delivery at scale. It reflects years of shared learning, adaptability, and a consistent focus on quality across every stage of development.

While Norwich Broadway is an important marker in this journey, it is by no means a stopping point. The programme continues to move forward, with new sites progressing through design and construction. Costa Hastings, recently handed over and due to open in May, is one of the latest examples, demonstrating the continued momentum and commitment behind the rollout.

For JWA Architecture, the value of this partnership lies not only in its longevity, but in its ongoing evolution. Each new site presents an opportunity to build on what has come before, refining the approach while responding to new contexts and requirements.