Brewing Success: Blue Tokai’s Shivam Shahi Steers the Specialty Coffee Revolution

In a significant stride for the Indian specialty coffee industry, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, led by the dynamic Shivam Shahi, has raised a staggering $30 million in a Series B funding round. A91 Partners spearheaded the investment, joined by new investor White Whale Ventures, alongside existing supporters, including 8i Ventures, Grand Anicut Fund, and prominent family offices. This funding marks a pivotal moment, representing the largest investment round to date in India’s specialty coffee sector.

Founded in 2013, Blue Tokai has become synonymous with high-quality Indian specialty coffee. Headquartered in Gurgaon, the company operates four roasteries and boasts over 60 physical outlets across major Indian cities and regions, with a notable international presence in Japan. The Series B funding comes on the heels of the company’s previous investment round in June last year, signifying a continued trajectory of growth and innovation.

Shahi, the Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Blue Tokai, sheds light on the company’s strategic plans for the funds. The primary focus is on scaling the business, extending its footprint in global specialty coffee markets, and fortifying its position as a leading player in the industry. Blue Tokai is not merely resting on its laurels; it is gearing up to launch a new line of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) products.

A distinctive aspect of Blue Tokai’s approach is its commitment to supporting small-scale independent farmers. The funding will empower the company to continue fostering sustainable partnerships with these farmers, aligning with its ethos of responsible and ethical sourcing. Strengthening customer experience is another key area of investment, ensuring that patrons continue to enjoy the premium quality and unique experience that Blue Tokai is renowned for.

Having partnered with marquee retail outlets, luxury hotels, restaurants, corporations, and co-working spaces, Blue Tokai has strategically positioned itself across diverse channels. Shivam Shahi expresses excitement about the partnership with A91 Partners, emphasizing the immense opportunity in the coffee-led Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market. The company envisions becoming the largest specialty coffee brand in India as the country increasingly embraces coffee as the beverage of choice.

Blue Tokai’s global aspirations are evident in its plan to expand operations in the next three years. The company aims to add 200 new stores, surpassing a total of 250 cafes globally. The focus extends beyond physical spaces, with substantial investment in the Business-to-Business (B2B) arm. Introducing new technology for partners through innovative machine offerings is part of Blue Tokai’s strategy to stay at the forefront of the industry.

In the coming years, Blue Tokai envisions showcasing the work of 100 new specialty coffee producers, adding diversity to its product offerings. By actively engaging with producers, the company seeks to create a more inclusive and varied range of specialty coffee, enriching the coffee culture in India.

At the helm of this ambitious venture is Shivam Shahi, whose leadership has been instrumental in Blue Tokai’s success. With a commitment to making specialty coffee more accessible through cafes, brewing classes, and an engaging online presence, Shahi is steering Blue Tokai towards becoming a trailblazer in the specialty coffee revolution.

In conclusion, Shivam Shahi and Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters are not just brewing coffee; they are brewing success, innovation, and a vibrant coffee culture. The Series B funding represents not only a financial milestone but also a testament to the vision and dedication that continue to propel Blue Tokai to new heights in the world of specialty coffee.