A new master franchise agreement could result in 250 new locations.
By Andrew Carlo
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is eyeing major franchise expansion in India.
The Los Angeles-based beverage chain (CBRL) has signed a master franchise agreement with Ekaagra Ostalaritza Pvt Ltd.
The move grants Ekaagra Ostalaritza Pvt Ltd exclusive rights for the development and expansion of the brand in India with the franchisee opening 250 cafes over the next five years.
“We are delighted to partner with Ekaagra Ostalaritza to accelerate our growth in India,” said Yousif Abdulghani, chief development officer at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. “India’s dynamic coffee and tea market offers incredible potential, and Ekaagra Ostalaritza’s deep expertise and local insights make them the ideal partner. Together, we are poised to position The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf as a key player in India’s thriving specialty beverage market.”
Ekaagra Ostalaritza Pvt Ltd is backed by Prannay Sureka, an investor in the retail and food and beverage industries.
“We are excited to be entrusted with driving The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s expansion in India,” said Prashant Kumar, a founding team member and chief strategy officer at Ekaagra Ostalaritza.
“With our deep understanding of the Indian market and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s superior product portfolio and global brand values, we aim to redefine café culture in India.”
CBTL originally entered India in 2008 and has already established a network of existing cafes. Globally, the company has more than 1,200 locations in 20 markets, primarily in Asia.
Global franchising is a key initiative at CBTL with additional locations currently in development across the United States, South America, the Middle East, and Asia.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of creating a unique and premium coffee and tea experience tailored for Indian consumers,” said Mr. Vikram Nagpal, founding team member and chief business officer at Ekaagra Ostalaritza.
Founded in Southern California in 1963, CBTL said it continues to seek strategic partnerships with multi-unit franchisees. CBTL is owned by the Jollibee Group of Companies, which is based in Manila, Philippines and acquired the beverage marker in 2017.
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