Brands
Barista Coffee etches 25 years of brewing memories across India
MUMBAI: The homegrown pioneer of India’s café culture, Barista Coffee is celebrating its 25 anniversary on 28 February 2025. For over two decades, Barista has been serving up aromatic brews, nostalgic moments, and a sense of belonging, cementing its position as one of India’s most loved coffee chains. With 465+ outlets across India and beyond, the brand continues to redefine coffee experiences for every generation.
To mark this milestone, Barista is treating its loyal customers with a special anniversary offer—free beverage upgrades from 28 February to 2 March. Adding to the celebration, the brand will unveil limited-edition anniversary coffee packs, blending nostalgia with innovation.
Reflecting on this achievement, Barista Coffee CEO Rajat Agrawal expressed, “Celebrating 25 years is an incredible milestone for Barista Coffee. As India’s largest homegrown coffee chain, we have consistently evolved to keep pace with the ever-changing preferences of coffee lovers. Over the years, we have introduced innovative menus, unique campaigns, and experiences that resonate with generations. Barista Coffee is more than just a café—it’s a place where stories are brewed, friendships are forged, and memories are made. We are excited to continue this journey with the same passion and commitment.”
Since its inception, Barista Coffee has been instrumental in shaping India’s coffee culture. Whether it’s a steaming cup of cappuccino on a busy morning or a relaxed evening with friends over a cold brew, the brand has been an integral part of countless moments.
As Barista steps into its next chapter, it aims to further expand its footprint, introduce bold new flavours, and continue its mission of making coffee more than just a beverage—it’s a lifestyle.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
