US-based coffee giant Starbucks achieves a notable milestone in India as it inaugurates its 400th store in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, marking a significant stride in its expansion journey in the country.
The latest outlet, situated at The Lakshmi Mills – Urban Center, stands as a testament to Starbucks’ commitment to providing exceptional coffee experiences across diverse regions. Govind K Menon, executive director at Pavilions & Interiors, shared the news on social media, expressing pride in delivering the flagship store in Coimbatore.
Pavilions & Interiors, responsible for designing the store’s interiors, incorporates elements that pay homage to India’s rich heritage. Notably, a suspended sculpture within the store honors Lakshmi Mills, India’s oldest yarn and fabric manufacturer since 1910, crafted meticulously using wood, linen textiles, and woven ropes.
Operating in India through a 50:50 joint venture between Seattle-based Starbucks Coffee Co. and Tata Consumer Products Ltd., Starbucks has been on an expansion spree. In 2023 alone, the brand penetrated 15 new cities, launching 71 new stores to cater to the growing demand for premium coffee experiences.
With ambitions to double its workforce, Starbucks aims to increase its partners from the current 4,300 to around 8,600, indicating robust growth plans. The expansion strategy extends beyond metropolitan areas, targeting tier 2 and 3 cities, as well as introducing services such as drive-thrus, airport outlets, and 24-hour store formats to cater to diverse customer needs.
Looking ahead, Starbucks envisions an extensive presence in India, aiming to operate 1,000 stores by 2028—an ambitious goal that translates to a new store opening approximately every three days. This strategic vision underscores Starbucks’ commitment to fostering a vibrant coffee culture while embracing India’s dynamic market landscape.
As Starbucks continues to weave itself into the fabric of Indian communities, the inauguration of its 400th store in Coimbatore signals not just a numerical milestone but a testament to its enduring commitment to excellence and innovation in the coffee industry.