Cooks Coffee Company - Master Franchise Agreement for India

7 May 2025

Cooks Coffee Company Limited

("Cooks Coffee", the "Company" or the "Group")

Master Franchise Agreement for India

Cooks Coffee Company (NZX:CCC; AQUIS:COOK), the international coffee focused café chain, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Master Franchise Agreement ("MFA") for the country of India. The agreement has been signed with Sterling Coffee House Limited (the "Franchisee"), a Special Purpose Vehicle ("SPV"), that will manage the venture.

Under the terms of the MFA, the Franchisee will be responsible for the establishment and operation of the business in India, with ongoing support from Cooks Coffee. This support will include providing systems, processes, and best practices related to the Esquires brand, enabling the Franchisee to maintain the high standards synonymous with the brand.

The market size for India's coffee retail chains was valued at USD 18.83 billion in the year to March 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.84% from 2030¹. This growth can be attributed to the growing coffee culture and changing lifestyle, the rising urbanisation and increasing per capita income

This exciting new partnership represents a significant step in expanding Cooks Coffee's global footprint and marks the next phase in the international development of the Esquires Brand. The Company is confident that the strong local expertise and proven track record of the franchise partner will contribute to the success of this venture.

The Company will continue to update the market on progress as the venture develops.

Aiden Keegan, CEO of Cooks Coffee Company, said: "We are thrilled to announce the signing of the Master Franchise Agreement for India, marking an important milestone in our international expansion strategy. India represents a dynamic and growing market, and we are confident that Sterling Coffee Houses Limited will be a great partner in bringing the Esquires Brand to new customers across the country. This partnership will enable us to extend our brand presence while benefiting from the proven operational support provided by our teams in the UK & Ireland."

¹ https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/india-cafes-&-bars-market

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