Tata to Launch Starbucks Cafés in India

Tata Starbucks Limited, the 50/50 joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq:SBUX) and Tata Global Beverages Limited, today confirmed that the first store in India will open in the Horniman Circle area of Mumbai by the end of October 2012.

The store will also be the first Starbucks location to feature espresso sourced and roasted locally from India through the coffee sourcing and roasting agreement with Tata Coffee Limited.

Espresso sourced from India will be a hallmark feature of all Starbucks stores in the market, highlighting the quality espresso available in India and Tata Starbucks’ attempt to deliver Starbucks Experience to customers throughout India.

“We are delighted to be able to announce our progress toward opening our first store in India and to introduce locally sourced espresso,” said John Culver, president, Starbucks China and Asia Pacific.

“The joint venture is in line with Tata Global Beverages’ strategy of growing through strategic alliances in addition to organic growth,” stated Harish Bhat, CEO, Tata Global Beverages.

Tata Starbucks Limited today also announced the appointment of Avani Saglani Davda as CEO.

Avani, who has worked for the Tata companies for more than ten years, joined the Tata Group as a TAS (Tata Administrative Service) probationer in 2002.

Most recently, she worked in the vice chairman’s office for Tata Global Beverages, where she was responsible for driving and facilitating key strategies and initiatives for the company as well as marketing and business development assignments.

She also played a pivotal role in the development of the joint venture relationship between the two companies in preparation for entry into the India market.

Avani will report to the Board of Directors for Tata Starbucks Limited. Continuing to be based in Mumbai, her appointment is effective immediately.

Tata Starbucks Limited will own and operate Starbucks cafés in India.

Photo courtesy: Starbucks