Starbucks, the world's largest coffee retailing chain, is brewing a local debut plan.
Though a timeframe for the Indian foray is yet to be decided, sources close to the development said the US-based giant has already begun doing the groundwork for the venture.
Helping the global specialty chain is Harish Bijoor, the former marketing head of Tata Coffee.
Bijoor has floated his own consulting firm with the funding from a US overseas venture capital firm.
It may be recalled that Starbucks lost the race to Tata Coffee in acquiring a stake in Barista Coffee Company.
Barista Coffee, also positioned as a premium brand has currently operates over 100 Expresso Bars spread across major cities in India. As part of its expansion plans, it is spreading its wings in the overseas market.
The cafe culture has caught on with players such as Baristas, Cafe Coffee Day, Qwicky's and Java City.
However, industry experts agree that returns are slow to come, though the coffees are priced at fancy rates anywhere between Rs 15 and Rs 40 a cup.
Though the pricing strategy is not known, Starbucks' will be offering its coffee range at a premium price.
Starbucks is one of the fastest growing brands in the world, after entrepreneur Howard Schultz bought the chain 15 years ago.
Since it went public 10 years ago, Starbucks Coffee,the leading retailer, roaster and brand of specialty coffee in the world, with more than 6,500 retail locations in North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific Rim.
The company's international business development strategy is to adapt to different markets addressing local needs and requirements.
It currently uses three business strategies: joint ventures, licenses, and company-owned operations.
