The UK-based coffee chain has partnered with local franchisee International Food Chain to open its first store in the central Asian country, its 33rd market globally
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Uzbekistan is Costa Coffee’s 33rd market globally and follows recent debuts in Georgia and Azerbaijan | Photo credit: Costa Coffee
Costa Coffee has entered Uzbekistan with an outlet in the capital city, Tashkent.
The UK-based coffee chain opened the store via local franchisee International Food Chain, which also operates licensed KFC outlets in Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan is Costa Coffee’s 33rd market globally and follows recent debuts west of the Caspian Sea in Georgia and Azerbaijan in November 2022 and April 2023 respectively.
“At Costa Coffee we carefully consider each new retail market entry and we're all excited to launch in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Tashkent has embraced the arrival of our fantastic brand and the city's coffee culture is set to reach new heights following our arrival. With our modern design that invites customers to unwind, coupled with an extensive menu showcasing international flavours, it promises an exciting and unforgettable experience,” said Jamie Awdry, Head of Franchise, Costa Coffee MENA.
Uzbekistan is traditionally a tea drinking nation, but coffee consumption has increased in recent years, presenting new opportunities for premium coffee shops.
In May 2022, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage held the country’s first Coffee and Tea Festival in Tashkent. The event featured various workshops, seminars and tastings opportunities, as well as the Uzbek Coffee Cup barista championship.
Uzbekistan’s branded coffee shop market is heavily centred on the capital city Tashkent. The market leader Cafelito Coffee has 29 stores in the city, with specialty coffee shop Coffee Lab and international brands Gloria Jean’s, Black Bear Kofi and Boost Coffee also present.