Back in 2009 when Ashley Cross was tumbleweed and dying pubs, we spotted a spot - a TINY tired shopfront. A room at best. Small being an understatement. But it had character, it had charm, it had loads of parking all about, and it was CHEAP.
So, a couple of pints later and with a 'let's do this' attitude - the Goat was born. And who could have known that day after day, month after month, sitting alone making coffee for the few with a bit of cake that it would eventually be the institution it is now. True organic growth. Nothing fake.There wasn’t even Instagram. Real people working hard to build what unknowingly became a community. A much loved, much needed haven.
Connections. Love. Business. Support. That's the GOAT. Oh, and a damn fine cup of coffee. Consistently. Now and forever.
The founder, Colin, travelled extensively around the expanse of Western Australia for many years prior whenever the opportunity arose. Primarily a mission to seek out wind and waves as a passionate windsurfer but, unknowingly at the time, was hugely inspired by the laid back approach to coffee shops.
Cool, awesome simple food, great coffee, early opening, approachable, community. This style resonates throughout the Goat, and with more travel and inspiration on the horizon, it's what keeps the Goat ahead.
Owner founded, owner run, owner driven. Every single day.
Thats how it started - not how it ends.
With G2 now open in Wareham and being embraced by locals and visitors alike, the model is proven. The Goat is solid. Like its namesake. Sure footed, capable, adaptable, stubborn.
When writing this on a dreary Autumnal Day late ’25, a third store is about to open in Broadstone. A simply stunning site with sunny frontage and a great vista. Parking galore and a shopfit outlined to elevate it to the best yet. Can’t wait.
Will there be more? We hope so. Business is never easy but we have a template. A team of awesome people sharing the goal - to be GOAT.
The best there is.