Starbucks, the globally acclaimed coffee chain, has recently launched its inaugural store in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Despite doubts regarding the sustainability of a premium coffee brand in a smaller Indian city, a video footage has disproved such skepticism.
A video making rounds on social media depicts extensive queues outside the freshly opened establishment, underscoring the enthusiasm of the public and the café’s popularity. Numerous two-wheeler vehicles are visible parked outside the outlet. Furthermore, a bustling crowd of customers fills the interior, vying for space.
This clip was shared by an X user Aaraynsh. ”People earlier: Starbucks wouldn’t succeed in small towns because nobody would buy a ₹300 coffee. Meanwhile Varanasi,” the video was captioned.
People earlier : Starbucks wouldn’t succeed in small towns because nobody would buy a ₹300 coffee.
Meanwhile Varanasi : pic.twitter.com/KYfSJt1WQ3
— Aaraynsh (@aaraynsh) March 29, 2024
Reacting to the video, one user wrote, It’s just an opening ceremony maybe that’s why people just wanna try it but yeah it will be successful all thanks to social media status.”
Another commented, ”I didn’t see this coming in a million years! Rameshwaram cafe feels.” A third said, ”In initial days you will find the same queue, just to get clicked with Starbucks cup and to post it on insta, after few days only real coffee lovers will come When it was started in Indore, there were queue for 2-3 hrs to get into the cafe.”
A fourth added, ”Benares is by no means a small town. The city also happens to be a magnet for national and international tourists, home to two universities, one affiliated with IIT, and represented by Modi in the parliament.” A fifth wrote, ”Whoever thinks the Indian consumer doesn’t like to spend hasn’t worked long enough. They love a bargain but will spend on things they think hold value/status/need.”
Previously, the breathtaking royal-themed design of the establishment captivated internet users. Particularly noteworthy was the coffee company’s restoration of an old structure into a fresh, aesthetically pleasing outlet. Numerous individuals shared images and videos of the café, praising its architecture, ambiance, and sophisticated appearance.
The first Starbucks in Varanasi ❤️ pic.twitter.com/OyJhsGA0Nk
— Aaraynsh (@aaraynsh) March 22, 2024
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The latest Starbucks outlet in Varanasi commenced operations on March 22nd. Operating as a 50:50 Joint Venture between Tata Global Beverages and Starbucks Coffee Company, Starbucks India has expanded its reach to 30 cities across the country.