Meet the Minds Behind First Coffee: An Inside Look at Sohrab, Shiv, and Chandini’s Bold Coffee Revolution

First Coffee’s Visionaries: Sohrab Sitaram, Shiv Dhawan, and Chandini D Purnesh Transform the Coffee Experience

We are delighted to welcome Sohrab Sitaram, Shiv Dhawan, and Chandini D Purnesh, the dynamic co-founders of First Coffee. Their innovative approach is transforming the coffee industry with a fresh perspective on taste and sustainability.

Today, we’ll explore their journey of creating a revolutionary coffee brand, their vision for the future of coffee, and how First Coffee is setting new standards in the world of brewing and enjoyment.

Can you share the story behind the founding of First Coffee? What was the initial vision, and what inspired you to enter the coffee industry?

Sohrab Sitaram: When we founded First Coffee, our vision was to create more than just a coffee shop; we wanted to offer a rich, immersive experience. Shiv, Chandini and I brought our passion for global coffee traditions aiming to craft a space where artisanal coffee and its diverse flavours could be explored, all using 100% Arabica beans.

With our background in hospitality and business, we sought to elevate the coffee experience through quality, sustainability, and innovation, addressing a market need for sustainably and ethically sourced coffee.

We were also inspired by the idea of using coffee as a medium for storytelling and community-building, envisioning our cafes as hubs where people connect and share experiences.

First Coffee aims to revolutionise India’s beverage landscape. What specific gaps in the market were you looking to address with your brand?

Shiv Dhawan: At First Coffee, our goal is to revolutionize India’s beverage landscape by addressing several key gaps in the market. Firstly, we noticed a lack of emphasis on specialty coffee with a focus on quality and flavour.

By using 100% Arabica beans and prioritizing artisanal brewing techniques, we aim to elevate the coffee experience and introduce Indian consumers to a new level of taste and sophistication.

Secondly, we recognized a growing demand for sustainably and ethically sourced products. Many consumers are becoming increasingly aware of environmental and ethical issues, and we wanted to meet that demand by ensuring our coffee is sourced responsibly, from farms that prioritize fair trade practices and environmental stewardship.

Additionally, there was a need for a coffee culture that fosters community and connection. Traditional coffee shops often lack a sense of warmth and engagement.

We sought to create spaces that not only serve exceptional coffee but also act as hubs for social interaction and creativity, where people can come together and share experiences in a welcoming environment.

By addressing these gaps—offering high-quality, ethically sourced coffee, and creating inviting spaces for community-building—First Coffee aims to transform the coffee scene in India and set new standards for what a coffee experience can be.

How did your backgrounds and experiences contribute to the development of First Coffee?

Sohrab Sitaram: Shiv Dhawan, Chandini D Purnesh and I brought together our diverse expertise to create First Coffee, a café that seamlessly integrates strategic vision, culinary mastery, and deep-rooted coffee knowledge.

Shiv’s business acumen and entrepreneurial experience provided the strategic direction to shape the brand. While my background in culinary arts and hospitality ensured a focus on quality, along with my experience with Keventers, has allowed us to leverage proven strategies in the food and beverage industry.

Chandini, as the Owner of Classic Group of Co. (Harley Estate), contributed her extensive knowledge of coffee cultivation and processing, ensuring that First Coffee’s offerings are of the highest quality and authenticity.

Together, our combined skills and passions have established First Coffee as a modern, socially-conscious brand that resonates with its audience.

What sets First Coffee apart from other coffee brands in India? Can you elaborate on the unique aspects of your product offerings and brand philosophy?

Chandini D Purnesh: As the coffee and beverage scene in India experiences a meteoric rise, First Coffee sets itself apart by offering a lifestyle-driven experience that resonates with a younger generation often overlooked by the current coffee scene.

Unlike traditional brands, First Coffee introduces Coffee Mixology, combining craft and creativity to elevate coffee into a premium, yet accessible, experience.

As India’s first grab-and-go specialty coffee brand, First Coffee ensures that every cup is not only delicious but also sustainably sourced.

Our vision is to democratise coffee by ensuring that the finest single-origin Specialty Coffee is available at non-premium prices, making high-quality coffee an everyday luxury rather than an exclusive indulgence.

This approach not only enhances the brand’s value but also connects with a modern audience seeking authenticity, innovation, and inclusivity in their coffee experience.

How do you envision the future of coffee consumption in India, and what role do you see First Coffee playing in that future?

Chandini D Purnesh: The future of coffee consumption in India is poised for significant transformation, driven by a growing appreciation for quality, diverse tastes, and a shift towards more personalised, experiential coffee culture.

As Indian consumers become more discerning and adventurous in their coffee choices, the demand for specialty coffee, innovative brewing methods, and unique coffee experiences is expected to rise.

As awareness about coffee origins, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles increases, more consumers will seek out specialty coffee that offers a richer, more nuanced experience.

Coffee consumption will increasingly be seen not just as a daily routine but as a lifestyle choice. People will seek out coffee that aligns with their values, whether that’s sustainability,
ethical sourcing, or a connection to a particular coffee-growing region.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, First Coffee will be a key player in shaping the future of coffee consumption in India, driving innovation while staying grounded in our commitment to quality, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Are there any new markets or demographics that you are targeting for future growth? How do you plan to reach and engage with these audiences?

Shiv Dhawan: First Coffee is actively targeting new markets, including younger, tech-savvy urbanites, health-conscious consumers, and emerging urban centres in tier 2 and 3 cities.

We also see significant potential in high street markets, where we plan to introduce a grab-and-go model to cater to busy professionals and commuters, providing convenient access to high-quality coffee and fostering a positive brand experience that encourages repeat visits.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the food and beverage industry?

Sohrab Sitaram: Aspiring entrepreneurs entering the food and beverage industry should conduct thorough market research to understand consumer preferences and identify gaps, while prioritising quality and consistency in their products and services to build trust and loyalty.

Ultimately, maintaining passion and commitment to your vision will inspire both your team and your customers.

Thank you, Sohrab, Shiv, and Chandini, for sharing your inspiring journey and the groundbreaking vision behind First Coffee. Your commitment to redefining coffee experiences is truly impressive.

We look forward to seeing how First Coffee continues to innovate and influence the coffee industry. Your insights and passion are a testament to the exciting future of coffee.

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