Mumbai: M2M Ferries is excited to announce a significant milestone as TATA Starbucks inaugurates its first island store at the captivating coastal haven of Alibaug. Michael Conway, Group President, Starbucks International and Channel Development, and Devika Saigal, the CEO of M2M Ferries, inaugurated the new outlet at Mandwa.
Alibaug, known for its transformation into a preferred second-home destination and a weekend getaway for Mumbai residents, has experienced rapid infrastructural and economic development. This transformation has spurred a heightened demand for premium beverage and culinary experiences, paving the way for TATA Starbucks’ inaugural store in Alibaug.
Strategically located at the newly revamped Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) passenger convenience building at the Mandwa M2M Ferries Terminal, this new establishment will showcase a selection of Starbucks coffees meticulously sourced and brewed from across the globe. The launch was also attended by Sushant Dash, CEO of TATA Starbucks, and Emmy Kan- President of Starbucks Asia Pacific and all of them sailed across to Mandwa in M2M Ferries. M2M Ferries is the 1st International standard Ro-Pax service that connects Mumbai and Mandwa. The ferry cuts the usual travel time from 5 hours by road (111km) to just 1 hour by sea (19km) and provides all-weather, year-round connectivity.
Welcoming Starbucks at Mandwa, Devika Saigal, the CEO of M2M Ferries, says, “This new Starbucks island store at the M2M Ferry Terminal in Alibaug is a testament to the region’s transformation into a sought-after destination and our commitment to providing premium coffee and culinary experiences to our passengers.”
The Director of M2M Ferries, Aashim Mongia, who was also present at the inauguration, says, “We at M2M Ferries are thrilled to have TATA Starbucks’ first island store at the M2M Ferry Terminal in Alibaug. We are excited about this partnership with TATA Starbucks as we are dedicated to providing memorable journeys, and this also aligns perfectly with our commitment to offering exceptional, high-quality experiences to those travelling to the picturesque shores of Alibaug. We look forward to the smiles and satisfaction it will bring to our passengers.”
Nestled amidst the sights of the Arabian Sea, the inaugural Starbucks island store aspires to offer an exclusive ‘Third Place’ experience for Indian customers. Spanning across 2,500 square feet and embracing the serene essence of Alibaug, this store’s warm and welcoming ambience pays homage to its enchanting surroundings. It boasts captivating artworks that honour Starbucks’ maritime roots and celebrate the intricate tapestry of naval legends. Striking depictions of Moby Dick, the legendary white whale, grace the walls, symbolizing the pursuit of excellence.
Michael Conway, Group President for Starbucks International and Channel Development, shares, “I’m pleased to see how Indian customers have made Starbucks their destination for moments of human connection either with our green apron partners or family and friends in our stores. As one of the fastest growing markets for Starbucks, we are committed to innovation that exceeds the expectations of our customers and to nurture deeper connections across India’s vibrant coffee communities.”
About M2M Ferries:
M2M Ferries is the 1st International standard Ro-Pax service that connects Mumbai and Mandwa. The ferry carries 500 pax and 130 vehicles two-wheelers and also has a section exclusively for pets. The ferry cuts the usual travel time from 5 hours by road (111km) to just 1 hour by sea (19km) and provides all-weather, year-round connectivity.
M2M Ferries Private Limited (M2M Ferries) connects Mumbai and Mandwa. They operate a modern, efficient and comfortable service between the two key locations in Maharashtra. M2M Ferries, with the support of the Maharashtra Maritime Board and Mumbai Port Trust, has redefined Mumbai’s waterways as the only world-class Roll-On-Roll-Off-Passenger (Ro-Pax for short) Ferry service in the country. Their service cuts the usual travel time from 5 hours by road (111km) to just 1 hour by sea (19km) and provides all-weather, year-round connectivity.