Indian specialty coffee chain Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters has entered the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market with the launch of its first café at BurJuman Mall in Dubai, marking a significant step in its international expansion.
The company has partnered with GCC-focused food and beverage platform Ambrosia Foods to drive its regional growth. Under the partnership, the two companies plan to open more than 10 Blue Tokai cafés across the GCC over the next few years.
The Dubai outlet is Blue Tokai’s first café in the Middle East and builds on its international presence, which already includes operations in Tokyo, Japan.
“Blue Tokai is a landmark addition to our GCC portfolio and aligns perfectly with our strategy of bringing category-defining brands to the region,” said Vishwaroop Narain, Executive Chairman of Ambrosia Foods. He added that Indian brands are increasingly finding acceptance among consumers across the GCC and that Blue Tokai is well-positioned to showcase the quality and craftsmanship of Indian specialty coffee.
Founded in 2013, Blue Tokai has emerged as one of the pioneers of India’s specialty coffee segment. The company currently operates more than 250 cafés, three roasteries and works directly with over 80 coffee farms across the country.
Commenting on the expansion, Shivam Shahi, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, said the GCC is a natural next step in the company’s global growth strategy.
“India has an extraordinary coffee heritage, and the GCC’s vibrant café culture and appreciation for craft-led experiences make it an ideal market for our next phase of growth,” he said.
For Ambrosia Foods, Blue Tokai becomes the fourth brand in its regional portfolio, joining Biryani By Kilo, Furn Beaino and Mr. Brown, as the company expands its presence in the premium food and beverage segment across the Gulf.