Caffè Nero Fined After Suspected Rat Infestation Found

Caffè Nero received a fine following the detection of a suspected rat infestation at one of its establishments situated in Belfast city centre. The company was penalized £4,000 after admitting guilt to charges of failing to adequately pest-proof its Lombard Street premises and for not implementing sufficient procedures for rodent control. Legal action was initiated against Caffè Nero by Belfast City Council, citing breaches of food hygiene regulations, subsequent to an environmental health inspection conducted in September 2023. A third accusation, concerning the alleged failure to maintain the store’s cleanliness, was dismissed. During proceedings at Belfast Magistrates’ Court, it was revealed that an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) discovered rat bait trays and droppings within an electric box. Additional droppings were located beneath the seating pads in the booths positioned at the front of the coffee shop. Further issues were noted near a primary sewer cover, which was separated from the front-of-house beverage and food stations by a stud wall. A lawyer representing the council informed the court: “The EHO was concerned that rats were exiting the sewer and gaining access to the food preparation area.” More droppings and bait boxes were observed in an internal cladded section of a wall situated near the kitchen. An intended inspection of a storage area could not proceed due to its being filled with old equipment, chairs, tables, and decorations. The prosecutor further stated: “This area was regarded by the officer as being an ideal place of harbourage for rats due to the fact it was quiet and difficult to access.” The officer concluded: “Based on her inspection, the officer was of the opinion there was a current rat infestation throughout the premises.” Caffè Nero’s area manager was present and consented to the voluntary closure of the premises to allow contractors to conduct inspections. The Lombard Street location is one of 22 Caffè Nero branches operating in Belfast. The company operates a total of 40 outlets across Northern Ireland and approximately 700 shops throughout the UK and Ireland. Chris Sherrard, barrister representing the defendant company Nero Holding Ltd, outlined a series of measures implemented since the inspection. He stated: “Mesh has been inserted into the drain that’s thought to be the cause for concern.” Mr. Sherrard contended that the branch is situated in an area of the city known for being congested and challenging for pest control. In delivering the sentence, Judge Conner remarked: “Whilst I want to give credit for the plea, these are very serious matters. “I will impose a fine of £2,000 in respect of each of the two complaints.” Caffè Nero was additionally mandated to cover the Council’s legal costs, amounting to £359, for the case. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.