Japanese VC firm makes maiden investment in India’s booming coffee scene

India’s fast-developing branded coffee shop market is becoming a magnet for international investors, with Gen Z-focused brands in the spotlight

Less than 18 months after its maiden capital raise, Indian specialty coffee group First Coffee has courted new investment.

Founded by Sohrab Sitaram and Shiv Dhawan in 2023, First Coffee blends single-origin Indian specialty coffee with speed-of-service and convenience. The coffee chain, which exclusively sources coffee from Harley Coffee Estate in Karnataka, opened its first store at New Delhi’s Pacific Outlet Mall in April 2024.