Laxman Narasimhan, the Indian American CEO of Starbucks, recently undertook his first homecoming trip to India since assuming leadership. This two-city visit held special significance as Narasimhan spent his formative years in Pune and worked in Mumbai before his international career, adding a personal touch to the journey.
In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, Starbucks presently manages 390 stores in 54 cities across India, boasting a workforce of nearly 4,300 partners. The ambitious plan is to open an additional 1,000 stores by 2028, equivalent to one store every three days.
Reflecting on this upward trajectory, Narasimhan unveiled plans to open 1,000 more stores in India over the next four years. He emphasized Starbucks’ commitment to reaching new customers through innovative approaches wherever they are situated.
Future store formats will continue to prioritize inclusion and diversity while fostering meaningful human connections over coffee. Narasimhan engaged with store partners in Mumbai, participating in announcing winners of the Starbucks Coffee Championship, where a young barista named Madhav earned recognition.
During a partner open forum, Narasimhan shared his memories of growing up in India, recounting his journey from a cricket-loving child to a humble beginning at Starbucks as a barista. In a world marked by division, he expressed Starbucks’ role in providing spaces for people to come together, connect, find common ground, and experience a sense of belonging and joy.
Narasimhan frequently referenced Starbucks’ Triple Shot Reinvention strategy, aiming for substantial growth in India’s trillion-dollar economy. This includes plans for a second Reserve store opening in the market and the global release of Starbucks Reserve(R) whole bean coffee, Monsooned Malabar.
“Coffee is the heart of this company, and we must all learn and embrace it,” Narasimhan stated. He underscored the immense promise of India and the need to build a differentiated business with substance. The focus is on uplifting customers daily and creating a Starbucks experience that stands out in India.
