The chain of coffee shops formerly owned by Starbucks in Russia is set to reopen under the new name of Stars Coffee.
The first rebranded store was opened by the co-owners of the chain, Russian rapper Timati and restaurateur Anton Pinskiy, in central Moscow.
Timati and Pinskiy also unveiled the logo of their successor brand. The new logo has a circular shape and features a woman with a star above her head on a traditional headdress.
Pinskiy was quoted by Reuters as saying: “People’s perceptions may be different. But if you compare, then apart from the circle, you won’t find anything in common.”
Starbucks decided to exit the Russian market following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The coffeehouse chain did not comment on the similarity of the new logo and name.
However, Starbucks noted that the company has already withdrawn its operations in Russia and no longer has a brand presence in the country.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataStarbuck was present in Russia for nearly 15 years and had 130 stores in Russia prior to its exit, which were operated by its licensee Alshaya Group.
Timati and Pinskiy will source coffee beans from Latin America and Africa for their Stars Coffee stores.
Pinskiy added: “We just found other suppliers, found the right roasters, and because the baristas mixed it all correctly, we have a product that we think will be competitive.”
He said that the new Stars Coffee stores would open gradually throughout August and September across Russia.