Tata Starbucks Private Limited has announced plans to expand its presence in India, aiming to operate 1,000 stores in the country by 2028.
India, already a trillion-dollar economy, is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, making it a key focus area for Starbucks’ growth. The company recognises the strategic importance of India as one of its fastest-growing markets worldwide and plans to double down on its presence in the country.
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This strategy aligns with Starbucks’ long-term Triple Shot Reinvention Strategy, which emphasises skilling local partners, opening new stores that offer an elevated experience, and promoting Indian-origin coffee to a global audience.
Tata Starbucks, a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products Limited, was established in 2012. It currently operates over 390 stores across 54 cities in India, employing approximately 4,300 partners.
To achieve its goal of 1,000 stores by 2028, Tata Starbucks will double its workforce to around 8,600 partners. The company plans to enter Tier 2 and 3 cities, expand drive-thrus, airports, and 24-hour stores to cater to customers’ needs and preferences.
During his visit to India, Laxman Narasimhan, CEO of Starbucks, emphasised the company’s commitment to cultivating the evolving coffee culture in India.
“Over the past 11 years, the India market has grown to become one of Starbucks fastest-growing markets in the world. With a growing middle class, we are proud to help cultivate the evolving coffee culture while honoring its rich heritage,” Narasimhan said.
“With our trusted business partner, Tata, and our green apron partners, we are well-positioned to capture the limitless opportunities as we open one store every three days in India and further our aspiration to become truly global.”
Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks added, “Thanks to the strong foundation we have built in India, we are entering our next chapter of growth, driven by our unwavering commitment to create a uniquely ‘Starbucks Experience’ that uplifts customers, communities and partners.
With partners forming the heartbeat of our organisation and shaping our success in India, we will continue to make meaningful investments that bridge a better future for all partners. Coupled with our focus on reimagining the ‘third place’ and extending our coffee leadership, we are poised to catalyze further growth in India.”
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Tata Starbucks also announced plans to open the second Starbucks Reserve store this year. This move is part of their long-term commitment to catering to coffee enthusiasts who appreciate premium coffee experiences. In line with their mission to promote high-quality Indian Arabica coffee, Tata Starbucks will make Starbucks Reserve whole bean coffee Monsooned Malabar from India available at Starbucks Reserve stores in India, and in the United States later this year.