Singapore-listed company to take over 1,100 Starbucks outlets in Asia

Maxim, a Singapore-listed company, announced plans to acquire 1,100 Starbucks outlets across Asia from DFI in a deal worth US$340 million in cash. The acquisition includes DFI's 50% stake in the Hong Kong-based food and beverage conglomerate, which operates Starbucks coffeehouses in Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, Macau, and Laos.

Following the completion of the transaction, the Starbucks-licensed business is projected to be revenue and operating margin accretive to Maxim's core retail business, with further potential from operating synergies.

DFI, the Hong Kong-based retailer, anticipates that the Starbucks-licensed business will contribute between US$600 million and US$650 million to its total subsidiary revenue from April to December 2027, and approximately US$900 million on a full-year basis in 2028. The company attributes this growth to the expansion of Asia's middle class, rising disposable incomes, and increased spending on specialty coffee and tea.

Maxim sees strong tailwinds for its Starbucks-licensed business as the region's middle class continues to grow, leading to higher spending on premium beverages.

This acquisition comes as Starbucks undergoes a reshaping of its global business under CEO Brian Niccol. Niccol has been closing coffeehouses and cutting corporate jobs in North America to restore profitability. In Asia, Starbucks recently completed a joint venture with Boyu Capital, giving the latter a 60% stake in the retail operations while retaining 40%. Starbucks is also considering a sale of a majority stake in its Japan business, according to recent reports.

DFI recently raised its 2027 dividend payout ratio to 80% and maintained its 2028 underlying profit outlook between US$310 million and US$350 million.