France is expected to head the Japanese specialty coffee chain’s upcoming European expansion drive, which also includes plans to open stores in Germany, Portugal, Greece, Hungary and Spain
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Only four of % Arabica’s 163 stores globally are in Europe – all in London, UK | Photo credit: Triadi Yusuf
Japan’s % Arabica will open several stores in Paris in 2024 as part of its plan to re-enter the French market.
The Kyoto-based specialty coffee chain debuted in France in 2019 with two stores in Paris and reached three stores in the market before exiting in 2022.
“2024 will be the year when % Arabica will restart in France. First, we will open several stores in Paris, and then we will expand to other parts of France. We look forward to sharing our simple passion for coffee and design with you again,” % Arabica said on social media.
Only four of % Arabica’s 163 stores globally are in Europe – all in London, UK. However, following a franchise agreement with premium retail group SOHO Middle East, signed in July 2023, the chain is preparing to enter up to eight European markets within the next 12-24 months.
Alongside France, SOHO Middle East plans to open % Arabica stores in Germany, Portugal and Greece, with the partnership also exploring potential expansion into the Netherlands.
Additionally, the % Arabica website lists Hungary, Spain and Turkey among its next market entries, with stores expected in Budapest and Barcelona in 2024.
Founded in Kyoto, Japan, in 2014, % Arabica currently operates across 23 countries, with 70 stores in China and a growing presence across the Middle East, where it has 41 outlets in seven markets.