Alshaya Group acquires Starbucks Greece and Cyprus business, expands licensed operations in Europe
Alshaya Group takes over Starbucks operations in Greece and Cyprus, strengthening its global footprint and positioning the business for future growth and enhanced customer experience.
EUROPE – Alshaya Group has acquired the licensed Starbucks business in Greece and Cyprus, becoming the exclusive owner and operator of the coffee chain in both markets as it continues to expand its global footprint.
Starbucks Greece and Cyprus, which launched in 2002, operates a total of 48 stores—30 in Greece and 18 in Cyprus—and employs approximately 500 people. The acquisition marks a significant step in Alshaya Group’s strategy to grow its licensed Starbucks operations.
Alshaya Group is one of Starbucks’ largest and longest-standing licensed partners globally, having opened its first Starbucks store in Kuwait in 1999. The group now operates more than 2,000 Starbucks stores across 13 countries, serving over one million customers daily.
Saleh Alshaya, President of Starbucks at Alshaya Group, said the acquisition aligns with the company’s growth ambitions.
“With today’s announcement, we are continuing our vision of growth for our licensed Starbucks business, and we look forward to working with our new colleagues to offer even more choice for our customers to experience their favourite Starbucks coffee across Greece and Cyprus,” he said.
“This is an exciting time for our business, and we look forward to a great future,” he added.
Duncan Moir, President of Starbucks EMEA, welcomed the transition and highlighted Alshaya’s experience as a franchise operator. “We are looking forward to working with Alshaya Group to bring Starbucks to even more coffee lovers across Greece and Cyprus,” he said.
“I’d like to thank the Marinopoulos Group for their long-standing partnership over the last 24 years. As one of the world’s leading brand franchisee operators and our largest licensed partner, Alshaya Group is well placed to take the Starbucks experience in the region to new heights and success,” Moir added.
Giannis Marinopoulos of the Marinopoulos Group also commented on the transition. “I’d like to thank all our colleagues and customers for their support of our business since 2002 and wish Alshaya Group every success,” he said.
Under the leadership of Jacqueline Delpippo, Business Manager for Starbucks Greece and Cyprus, the immediate focus will be on ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining service continuity for customers.
The new operating entities will be known as Alshaya Hellas SMSA in Greece and Murgab Cyprus Ltd in Cyprus, with plans to enhance customer experience and explore growth opportunities over time.
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