As Head of Product and Marketing at TATA Starbucks, Mitali Maheshwari is shaping India’s coffee culture by blending global expertise with local flavours, creating experiences that go beyond the cup
For Mitali Maheshwari, Head of Product and Marketing at TATA Starbucks, coffee has always been more than just a beverage—it’s an experience, a ritual, and a means of connection. Her career spans diverse industries, but her passion for coffee made her transition to Starbucks feel natural.
“Coffee has always been a part of my journey even before I joined Starbucks,” Mitali shares. “I would bring back beans from around the world, brewing fresh cups at my desk and sharing the experience with colleagues. It was both energizing and therapeutic. One of my most memorable moments with Starbucks was when a barista remade my drink after it had gone cold during a call, leaving a heartfelt note. That made me realise Starbucks is about more than just coffee; it’s about human connection.”
This moment solidified her belief that great brands don’t just sell products—they create experiences. Her role at Starbucks allows her to channel this philosophy into every aspect of the brand’s product and marketing strategies in India.
Shaping India’s Evolving Coffee Culture
With India’s coffee culture evolving at an unprecedented pace, Starbucks is playing a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences. Mitali highlights the brand’s commitment to balancing global heritage with local sensibilities.
“At Starbucks, we blend global expertise with local innovation, introducing flavours like Kala Khatta Cold Brew and Pull-Apart Pav Bhaji to cater to India’s evolving tastes,” she explains. “We recognise that accessibility is key, which is why we’ve expanded into new store formats and continue to create experiential spaces, including pet-friendly stores and drive-thrus.”
While staying true to Starbucks’ heritage of sourcing and serving the finest Arabica beans, the brand’s vision for the Indian market extends beyond just coffee—it’s about crafting experiences that foster deeper customer connections. “Our goal is to make premium coffee experiences more immersive, personal, and accessible, strengthening the emotional connection customers have with Starbucks at every touchpoint.”
The Future of Starbucks India
Looking ahead, Mitali sees immense potential for Starbucks to further expand its footprint in India. With an increasing number of young, urban consumers embracing coffee as part of their daily routine, the brand continues to innovate and adapt.
“As we expand, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering unparalleled coffee experiences,” she says. “We’re not just serving beverages—we’re creating moments, fostering community, and redefining coffee culture in India.”
Under Mitali’s leadership, Starbucks India is poised to continue blending tradition with innovation, ensuring that every cup served is not just about coffee but about creating lasting memories.
