
US coffee giant Starbucks has reached a new milestone in Thailand with the opening of its 500th store in the country. The new store, located in Bangkok, is a drive-thru outlet that highlights the company’s focus on drive-thru expansion in the region. Starbucks aims to reach 800 stores across Thailand by 2030, solidifying its position in the country’s growing coffee market.
Starbucks first entered Thailand in 1998 with a store at the Central Chidlom department store in Bangkok. In 2019, the company fully licensed its Thai business to Coffee Concepts Thailand, a joint venture between Singaporean food and beverage company F&N and Hong Kong-based Maxim’s Group. This partnership has enabled Starbucks to expand rapidly in Thailand, with plans to continue growing its presence in the coming years.
Despite being the fourth largest branded coffee shop in Thailand, behind Café Amazon, Inthanin, and PunThai Coffee, Starbucks remains a dominant player in the market. According to World Coffee Portal’s Project Café East Asia 2024 report, the total Thai branded coffee shop market now exceeds 8,350 outlets, making it the third largest in East Asia behind China and South Korea. The market is forecast to reach 9,590 outlets by 2029, providing ample opportunities for Starbucks to continue its expansion.
Starbucks’ focus on drive-thru expansion is a key strategy in Thailand, where convenience and mobility are increasingly important to consumers. The company’s drive-thru outlets offer a range of beverages and food items, including its signature coffee drinks and pastries. With its 500th store opening in Bangkok, Starbucks is well on its way to achieving its goal of 800 stores across Thailand by 2030.
Here are some key points about Starbucks and the coffee market in Thailand:
- Starbucks has reached 500 stores in Thailand with the opening of a new drive-thru outlet in Bangkok.
- The company aims to reach 800 stores across Thailand by 2030.
- Starbucks is the fourth largest branded coffee shop in Thailand, behind Café Amazon, Inthanin, and PunThai Coffee.
- The total Thai branded coffee shop market exceeds 8,350 outlets, making it the third largest in East Asia behind China and South Korea.
- The market is forecast to reach 9,590 outlets by 2029.
- Starbucks’ focus on drive-thru expansion is a key strategy in Thailand, where convenience and mobility are increasingly important to consumers.
- Coffee Concepts Thailand, a joint venture between F&N and Maxim’s Group, licenses Starbucks stores in Thailand and other countries in the region.
Conclusion
“Starbucks’ milestone of reaching 500 stores in Thailand is a testament to the brand’s enduring popularity and strategic vision. As a leading brand consulting firm, Star Brands Consulting Ltd recognizes the importance of adapting to local market preferences and consumer behaviors. Starbucks’ focus on drive-thru expansion and convenience demonstrates their commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Thai consumers.
As the Thai coffee market continues to grow, we expect Starbucks to remain a key player in the industry. Their ability to balance global brand consistency with local market insights has been a key factor in their success. We anticipate that Starbucks will continue to innovate and expand their offerings in Thailand, further solidifying their position as a leader in the coffee market.
At Star Brands Consulting Ltd, we specialize in helping brands navigate complex markets and develop strategies for success. Our team of experts provides customized solutions to help brands thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape. Contact us to learn more about how we can help your brand succeed in Thailand and beyond.”