Here's an example of a franchise that has found a way to compete with Starbucks successfully by going into smaller cities where Starbucks doesn't go. To think of it, that's the exact same strategy that made Walmart so successful in its early days.
Bradford isn't necessarily a hip place, however, it is growing quite rapidly thanks to the new Go Train station and high real estate prices in Newmarket. Coffee Culture is the only premium coffee shop in the town (at least the only one I have come across). They are fulfilling their role wonderfully.
Their staff is efficient and courteous. Their pastries are fresh. Their drinks are consistently good quality.
The inside looks a bit dated but rich and cozy. There is a fireplace in the back with a few leather armchairs.
Every table has an electrical outlet so plugging in your laptop or cell phone charger is never an issue. They have recently upgraded their Internet modem / router and the WiFi has been working well.
There are times when the shop gets busy and the parking in the back can't house all the cars. However, there is street parking and a huge Green P lot just steps away and its free.