Budget coffee shop easyCoffee has revealed plans to roll out over 200 sites across the UK, with up to 20 in Manchester.

Founded by easyJet's Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the chain first launched earlier this year, with two sites in London and a third in Southend-on-Sea.

"Manchester itself could probably take 20 sites. We're planning a fairly aggressive roll out over the next couple of years," confirmed brand director Nick Paterson-Jones.

But when the average cup of coffee costs upwards of £2.50, how can easyCoffee afford to sell a cappuccino for £1? According to Paterson-Jones, quality of the product is not compromised.

(Image: Marte Lundby Rekaa)

"If you were in Europe, it doesn't cost £3, it costs €1. So we're more closely associated with the coffee prices you find in mainland Europe," he said.

"Quality is the key thing there is no difference in our coffee than anywhere else.

"We're just challenging the marketplace and what's out there."

The exact numbers and locations are yet to be confirmed, Paterson-Jones explains, but there are a lot of interested parties looking to take on the franchises.

"We're looking to appoint a local area master franchisee – and they will be responsible for the roll out.

"We will be deciding about how many and when after the new year. Hopefully we'll be active by 2017."