India’s café culture has witnessed explosive growth in the last decade, with premium coffee chains gaining popularity among urban consumers. One of the most iconic global brands in this space is Starbucks — known for its premium coffee, modern ambiance, and globally standardized service. Naturally, entrepreneurs are keen to know: What is the Starbucks franchise cost in India, and how can one open a store?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Starbucks franchise opportunities in India, including the investment required, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and expected returns.
☕ Starbucks in India: Brand Snapshot
Starbucks Corporation, based in Seattle, USA, entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50:50 joint venture with Tata Consumer Products. This partnership operates under the brand name Tata Starbucks Private Limited.
As of 2025, Starbucks has over 400+ outlets in India, located in prime commercial areas, shopping malls, airports, IT parks, and high-street zones across major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, and Hyderabad
Does Starbucks Offer Franchises in India?
Here’s the key fact:
Starbucks does NOT offer individual franchise opportunities in India.
All Starbucks outlets in the country are company-owned and operated by Tata Starbucks Pvt. Ltd. The brand follows a corporate-owned store model, ensuring tight control over product quality, service standards, and brand consistency
Alternative Opportunity: Becoming a Licensed Partner or Supplier
While direct franchising is not available, there are alternative business opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors who wish to associate with Starbucks India:
- Real Estate Leasing: If you own prime commercial property (at least 1000–1500 sq. ft.) in a top-tier location, you can lease it to Starbucks. The company is constantly looking for premium locations in malls, airports, high streets, and office hubs.
- Vendor or Supplier Partnership: Businesses involved in food & beverage, packaging, logistics, or IT services can apply to become a supplier or logistics partner with Tata Starbucks.
- Corporate Investment Route: Large hospitality groups, developers, or institutional investors may explore long-term partnerships or licensing models through negotiations with Tata Consumer Products
Estimated Cost to Open a Starbucks-like Café in India
If you’re inspired by Starbucks and want to launch a premium coffee shop of your own, here’s an estimated cost breakdown to help you understand the scale of investment needed:
| Expense Head | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Prime Commercial Property Lease | ₹2 – ₹5 lakhs/month (rent) |
| Interior Design & Furniture | ₹25 – ₹50 lakhs |
| Coffee Machines & Kitchen Setup | ₹10 – ₹20 lakhs |
| Licensing, Approvals & POS | ₹3 – ₹5 lakhs |
| Staff Hiring & Training | ₹2 – ₹4 lakhs |
| Initial Inventory | ₹5 – ₹7 lakhs |
| Marketing & Branding | ₹3 – ₹5 lakhs |
| Total Setup Investment | ₹70 lakhs – ₹1.5 crore |
This is not a Starbucks investment, but the capital you may need to build a Starbucks-style premium café under your own brand name.
Starbucks Store Profit Potential (Company-Owned)
Though exact profits are not public, financial analysts and reports estimate:
- Monthly Revenue: ₹10 – ₹30 lakhs (varies by location)
- Average Spend Per Customer: ₹300 – ₹500
- Gross Margin: 65% – 75%
- Net Profit Margin: 10% – 15%
- ROI (for a similar independent model): 3 to 5 years
Starbucks leverages brand loyalty, a premium customer base, and high average order value to maintain profitability.
📬 How to Partner or Connect with Tata Starbucks India
If you own a property or want to explore a commercial partnership:
- Visit: https://www.starbucks.in
- Navigate to the “Contact Us” section.
- Reach out for:
- Real estate proposals
- Business collaborations
- Vendor partnerships
You can also connect via their LinkedIn page or the Tata Consumer Products corporate site.
✅ Benefits of Starbucks India’s Business Model
- 🌍 Global brand reputation and international customer loyalty
- ☕ Premium pricing model with excellent margins
- 🧑🍳 Strong focus on training, quality, and customer service
- 💼 Consistent expansion in India’s urban & metro markets
- 📱 Seamless integration of delivery, app-based loyalty, and digital marketing
⚠️ Limitations to Keep in Mind
- ❌ No direct franchise opportunities for individuals
- ⚙️ High investment and operating costs for a similar café
- 🏙️ Only suitable for prime city locations (not viable in rural areas)
- 🛂 Requires strong compliance and service standard adherence
🧾 Conclusion
While you cannot own a Starbucks franchise in India as an individual, there are still ways to associate with the brand—whether by offering prime commercial space, becoming a vendor, or launching your own premium café inspired by Starbucks’ model.
