Costa Coffee and ELR: A UAE Example of Long-Term Franchise Development

The extension of the Costa Coffee and Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) partnership until 2040provides an example of long-term franchise development in the Gulf.

A 26-Year Partnership in the UAE

Costa Coffee and ELR began their collaboration in 1999, when they opened the first Costa Coffee franchise store outside the United Kingdom.

The partnership has since developed to more than 160 Costa Coffee stores in the UAE. ELR was also recently named International Franchise Partner of the Year at Costa Coffee's International Partner Forum.

Continuing the Partnership Until 2040

The renewed agreement extends the existing partnership until 2040. Costa Coffee CEO Philippe Schailee highlighted the relationship as an example of the possibilities created by a long-standing franchise agreement.

ELR CEO Tyrone Reid also emphasized the companies' 26 years of collaboration and the continuation of their relationship.

A Relevant Case for Gulf Franchise Markets

For franchise professionals in Oman, the UAE case provides a concrete example of how an international brand and its franchise partner can develop a relationship over the long term.

The Costa Coffee–ELR partnership demonstrates the potential importance of continuity, trust and long-term collaboration in franchise development, based on a relationship that has now been extended to 2040.

Middle East Franchise Editorial Team