Tata Starbucks Limited, the 50/50 joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Global Beverages Limited, announced on 27 September 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, the company said in a statement. Espresso sourced from India will be a feature of all Starbucks stores in the market. “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, in a statement. “Being able to use the highest quality espresso, sourced and roasted in India, is an important part of delivering a locally relevant experience to our customers in the market.” “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, in the statement. “We are excited about the opportunity to innovate in the retail space and bring new beverage moments to more consumers.” Tata Starbucks Limited announced on the same day the appointment of Avani Saglani Davda as CEO. 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.
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