{
  "id": 11199564,
  "title": "Protein drinks and matcha chai: Starbucks patrons in Asia can expect more choice, outlets by 2029",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/protein-drinks-and-matcha-chai-starbucks-patrons-in-asia-can-expect",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-01T13:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Straits Times Business",
    "slug": "straits-times-business",
    "url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/business/protein-drinks-and-matcha-chai-starbucks-patrons-in-asia-can-expect-more-choice-outlets-by-2029"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Starbucks patrons in Singapore and six other Asian countries can anticipate a broader range of beverages and food options, along with an increase in the number of outlets, over the next three years under the control of DFI Retail Group. The reorganisation sees DFI taking full control of Starbucks' licensed operations in the region, while Hongkong Caterers retains ownership of Maxim's Caterers' other food and beverage businesses. The group aims to capitalize on Starbucks' leading position in Asia's breakfast market by expanding its menu and catering to customers' demands for more beverage choices and functional drinks like protein shakes. Additionally, Starbucks plans to introduce more outlets across Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos between 2027 and 2029, increasing the total number of stores in Asia from 1,110 to 1,350. Initial focus will be on Thailand and Vietnam, where coffeehouse penetration is currently low. The reorganisation also comes amid intensifying competition for coffee and tea consumers in Asia, with Chinese coffee giant Luckin Coffee rapidly expanding its presence in Singapore. Despite this, DFI CEO Scott Price believes there is still room to drive greater coffee and tea consumption in markets like Singapore, as customers have varying preferences for value and experience based on their demographics. The Starbucks business in the seven Asian markets generated $746 million in revenue in 2025. The reorganisation, set to complete by the end of March 2027, will result in DFI receiving $340 million in cash, which it plans to use for growth or return to shareholders as special dividends.",
  "summary": "There are also plans to broaden Starbucks’ breakfast and bakery offerings and adapting menus to local tastes.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}