Coffee Wars in India: Starbucks 2012 - Case Solution

, a popular dish in India1. Using the case facts, determine the strategy

of globalization that was utilized by Starbucks India.

Starbucks used the joint venture method of entry to enter India. Starbucks partnered with Tata Global Beverages to announce a 50-50 venture. It is the most preferred method of entry, especially in emerging markets.

A joint venture allowed Starbucks to take advantage of the infrastructure, local knowledge, and reputation of Tata. It leads to closer control, allowing for rapid expansion. The strategic goals of both partners were in alignment.

By entering into a joint venture, both partners can share the risks and costs – as well as the rewards – of the business.

The talent was hired and trained to create a unique experience for the consumer so that the staff could build a personal connection with customers. Starbucks stores are elegant in terms of style and size to attract upwardly 20-50-year-old demographic.

After entering into a Joint Venture, the company set up a roasting plant and worked with Taj SATS to create offerings for Indian consumers. Starbucks tweaked the menu to suit Indian tastes, such as a tandoori chicken sandwich, a popular dish in India. The goal was to ensure that people felt a sense of belonging. A partnership with Tata could help Starbucks achieve this goal.

Firstly, the company opened flagship stores and then expanded by building stores in locations where it was certain of consumer demand.

Thus, choosing joint ventures as a mode of entry was suitable for globalization as it is very important to understand local consumer tastes in the beverage industry.

Partnership with a local partner helps Starbucks gain local knowledge and then acquire the partner’s share if the venture turns out to be profitable. This allows sharing of risks and rewards (Yoffie and Tanya, 2013).

2. Critically evaluate if Starbucks’s strategy to enter India and its

aspirations to grow in India can succeed- Why or why not?

There are several factors that can lead to the success of Starbucks in India, including…