Starbucks and Tata Starbucks Launch Farmer Support Partnership to Strengthen India’s Coffee Value Chain

Chennai: Starbucks Coffee Company, in collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, has announced the launch of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) aimed at empowering 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030. The initiative reaffirms Starbucks’ long-term commitment to India and its leadership in the country’s evolving coffee ecosystem.

The FSP will be headquartered in Karnataka and extend support to farmers across India’s key coffee-growing states—Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. It will connect local agronomists and farmers to Starbucks’ global network through open-source agronomy, sustainable farming practices, and technical “model farms” designed to test new varietals and improve productivity, profitability, and climate resilience.

“India is one of our fastest-growing markets. We’re partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India—from supporting farmers to delivering premium offerings to customers,” said Brian Niccol, Chairman and CEO, Starbucks Coffee Company.

Key Features of the Farmer Support Partnership

• Model Farms: Technical farms to embed best practices and test sustainable solutions.
• Global Collaboration: Integration with Starbucks Farmer Support Centers in Costa Rica, Indonesia, and China.
• Digital Training Tools: Launching in 2026, offering modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and ethical sourcing.
• Regenerative Agriculture: Education on reducing carbon, water, and waste footprints.
• Seedling Donation: Tata Starbucks to donate one million high-yield Arabica seedlings over five years.

“This initiative pairs Starbucks’ global agronomy expertise with Tata’s deep local footprint to drive tangible impact and responsible coffee farming,” said Sunil D’Souza, MD & CEO, Tata Consumer Products.

Celebrating a Milestone: 500th Starbucks Coffeehouse in India

Coinciding with the FSP launch, Tata Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR. The new outlet will feature a Starbucks Reserve® experience, offering premium handcrafted beverages, immersive storytelling, and elevated store design.

Since its inception in 2012, Tata Starbucks has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s specialty coffee culture. As one of Starbucks’ fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the company’s strategic expansion, with continued focus on job creation and partner development.

“We’re proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership to life and celebrate our 500th store milestone. Our commitment to India goes beyond growth—it’s about investing in farmers, partners, and customers to build a vibrant coffee culture,” said Sushant Dash, CEO, Tata Starbucks.

With a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and coffee craftsmanship, Starbucks and Tata Starbucks continue to elevate the coffee experience in India—from bean to cup