KUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Food International (BFI) has been granted the rights to operate Starbucks stores in Iceland, Denmark and Finland.
The company said the move marked the first entry of a Malaysian public-listed food and beverage company into the Nordic coffee scene, with a focus on local hiring and sourcing.
"We are thrilled to announce our new venture of opening Starbucks Coffee stores in the Nordic region.
"We are excited to bring our expertise and passion for excellence to the vibrant Nordic coffee culture, introducing warm Malaysian hospitality and promising the exceptional Starbucks 'third place' experience cherished worldwide," Berjaya Food Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Sydney Quays.
As BFI assumes stewardship of Starbucks stores in Iceland, Denmark and Finland, it paves the way for a new era of innovation and growth in the Nordic coffee landscape.
The company said it is also dedicated to honouring Starbucks' mission and promises of community engagement and sustainability initiatives, further enriching the Nordic community.
"Building on our 26-year relationship with BFood, we are excited to further connect with more customers over a handcrafted Starbucks beverage and make impactful investments in our green apron partners (employees) as well as the community," said Starbucks Europe, Middle East and Africa president Duncan Moir.
In Denmark, BFI's expansion to the market will build on the rich coffee culture and store footprint established by Salling Group.
Sailing & Franchise CEO Marianne Bedsted said the partnership will expand its footprint and grow the Starbucks brand in Denmark.
"With our current strong momentum and Starbucks status as the most preferred coffee shop among Danes, we see significant potential for opening additional locations and attracting even more new customers," she added.