Costa Coffee has promoted Tom Edgar to the role of managing director for the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, signalling a strategic focus on expansion in these markets.  

Edgar, who has been with the UK-based coffee chain since 1998 and began his career as an area manager, will oversee operations across six markets in APAC and South Asia. 

Edgar’s career at the company encompassed leadership roles including head of franchise for India and general manager for Europe, the Middle East and North Africa (EMENA), India and the UK.  

In November 2023, Edgar assumed the role of global retail and franchise director, which he will continue to hold alongside his new responsibilities in the APAC region. 

In a LinkedIn post, Costa Coffee stated: “Tom’s had an impressive career spanning global roles across EMENA, India and the UK, and most recently as our global retail and franchising director. With our values at the heart of everything he does, Tom keeps reaching new heights.

“Based in Dubai with his family, Tom is perfectly placed to drive our growth in APAC while still leading our global retail and franchise strategy. We couldn’t be prouder to see one of our own rise up and make such a powerful impact.” 

Costa Coffee's presence in the APAC region commenced in 2006 with the opening of its first store in Shanghai, China.  

Since then, the brand has expanded significantly, operating more than 460 outlets in the country.  

World Coffee Portal reports that the coffee chain's growth has included the opening of 15 stores in Malaysia since 2019 and the establishment of eight outlets in Japan through a partnership with Sojitz Royal Café. 

The Coca-Cola-owned coffee chain also has a substantial footprint in South Asia, with 192 stores in India managed by franchise partner Devyani International.  

Costa Coffee also maintains a presence in Pakistan and Uzbekistan, with three stores in each country.