The state agency ‘Produce in Georgia’ reported that Georgia’s ongoing negotiations to bring the Starbucks brand into the local market have entered a more active phase. The agency’s director, Mikheil Khidureli, said that discussions with Alshaya Group, Starbucks’ long-time franchise partner in the Middle East, have intensified over the past few years and progressed notably throughout 2025.
Khidureli noted that senior representatives from Alshaya visited Georgia several times this year, conducting on-site assessments and holding meetings with potential partners. The evaluation process includes detailed market research and the inspection of possible locations not only in Tbilisi but also in Batumi and other major cities where the company is considering multiple openings.
Georgia’s Embassy in Kuwait, where Alshaya Group is headquartered, is also actively involved in the negotiations, supporting communication and coordination between the parties.
Khidureli stated that once Alshaya reaches a final decision on entering the Georgian market, the agency and the company will issue a joint official announcement.
