THE founder of the Beanscene coffee chain has quit after a dispute over future expansion plans.

Gordon Richardson, who brought US-style cafe culture to Glasgow, has stood down as managing director after agreeing a £350,000 refinancing deal to safeguard the future of the shops.

The agreement was struck to help stabilise the business amid fears of financial difficulties. Company director Alan Stewart has agreed to invest a "substantial amount" of cash into the chain, which has 14 shops across the west of Scotland, Edinburgh and Stirling, including one franchise outlet.

Mr Richardson, who started Beanscene from a single coffee cart, leaves the board with immediate effect, although he will remain a shareholder.

He told the Evening Times: "There was a difference of opinion in terms of the future direction of the business.

"Beanscene is an organic brand and that has made it hard to fund over the last nine years.

"I look forward to working on new dynamic projects and enjoying the Beanscene brand as a shareholder."

Around 25,000 customers visit Beanscene every week.

In and around Glasgow, the chain has outlets in Battlefield, Shawlands, Woodlands, Kelvingrove, and also Clarkston.

The business was established in 2000 and currently employs around 150 staff.

It's renowned for its live music and child friendly policies, inspired by the cafe culture in San Francisco and Greenwich Village in New York.

A spokeswoman for Beanscene said: "These funds were invested so as to enable the business to meet its obligations to creditors, secure the jobs of the employees, and provide a sound foundation for the business to move forward."

The first Beanscene opened in Skirving Street in Shawlands, with the West End shop in Cresswell Lane following shortly after.

Last year, Beanscene announced plans to open up to 45 shops and smaller Espresso units over the next three years.

Mr Stewart said today: "The refinancing deal will give the company a solid base to build on and secure its future.

"We have agreed leases on a number of units but have still to fit them out.

"Beanscene needed a stronger balance sheet to take things forward and we are looking at our options."

The Beanscene brand also includes its own record label, Luna Records, as well as an internet radio station, dealing mainly with independent and up-and- coming artists.

Mr Richardson added: "I am already looking to launch my next project which will combine live music with a licensed cafe bar.

"We're looking to open in Glasgow and Hamilton initially and have sourced potential sites."