Brisbane-born café chain Stellarossa has taken a decisive step toward global expansion with the signing of a master franchise agreement with Franchise India, preparing to enter one of the fastest-growing coffee markets in the world. The brand plans to begin with pilot locations in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore, positioning itself within the country’s most influential urban hubs before expanding into additional regions. India’s café sector has surged in recent years, creating a compelling opportunity for international brands that can balance global identity with local adaptation.
Co-founder Darren Schultz said the partnership reflects more than a geographic move, calling it a strategic alignment that gives Stellarossa access to local market intelligence and an established franchisee network. He emphasized that long-term success requires more than simply exporting an Australian model, and that the brand is focused on preserving its quality standards while tailoring formats and menus to the cultural and commercial realities of India. Schultz noted that early investments in operational refinement are intended to create a scalable framework that prioritizes franchisee performance and customer experience.
The expansion will begin with three to five cafés in the pilot phase, with plans to grow to 50 to 75 locations across major metros and promising Tier II markets once the model has been validated. Formats are expected to range from high-street cafés to drive-thru sites and kiosks based on real estate availability and consumer traffic patterns. The leadership team has made clear that rapid rollout is not the goal, and that sustainability and operational consistency will guide growth across the Indian market.
Stellarossa’s international ambitions coincide with continued expansion at home. The company expects to sign area development agreements across Australia in the coming year, with a target of establishing a strong presence in every major city by 2028. Franchise India Chairman Gaurav Marya described the partnership as timely, stating that India’s coffee culture is evolving quickly and now rewards both authenticity and high-quality sourcing. For both companies, the collaboration represents a shared belief that the next wave of café growth in India will be driven by brands that pair global standards with regional understanding.
