Starbucks opens first store in India

Marking its foray into India, US coffee chain major Starbucks today opened its first outlet in the city in a joint venture with Tatas.

The next two stores in the city will come up soon, said Tata Starbucks, which is an equal joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Global Beverages.
The first Delhi store will be opened in the first quarter of next year.

"We are proud to enter India with the Tatas, a global company that shares many of the same values that Starbucks was founded on more than 40 years ago," Starbucks Coffee Company Chairman, President and Chief Executive Howard Schultz said after opening the first store.

"Our first flagship store is an amazing celebration of great coffee, rich Indian heritage and community. We are investing for the long-term and see great potential for accelerated growth here," he said.

He added that for the first time in the history of Starbucks, the Seattle-based company is sourcing and roasting coffee here procured from the Tata Coffee estates.

Joining Schultz, Tata Global Beverages Vice-Chairman R K Krishna Kumar said, "This is a historic moment for Tata Global Beverages and Starbucks. Both the companies have a history of delivering product innovation and the highest quality experience to customers around the globe.

"We are delighted to come together today and transform the coffee experience for consumers, while providing a community gathering place to connect with family and friends".

The Indian Espresso Roast, which will be served at the store, will be a hallmark feature of all Starbucks stores in the market and highlights the quality espresso available here, Schultz said.