EPSRR and Axton Capital Partner to Expand F&B Outlets Across Sri Lanka and Oman
Kochi-based EPSRR Holdings Private Limited has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with UK-based Axton Capital to launch and scale food and beverage concepts across Sri Lanka and the Sultanate of Oman. The joint initiative marks the Indian company’s initial expansion into international markets.
What Happened
Under the signed agreement, EPSRR Holdings and Axton Capital will work together through J M Robertson & Company Limited (JMR), an Axton subsidiary. The collaboration plans to establish operations starting primarily in the capital cities of Colombo and Muscat before assessing further rollout across both nations and other international regions.
JMR, established in 1845 and recognized among the oldest coffee trading entities in the Indian subcontinent, currently manages coffee shops under the Department of Coffee brand in Sri Lanka and Oman. This existing operational footprint provides the newly formed venture an active base in both countries.
Key Highlights
- Initial Focus Markets: The partnership will focus its launch phase on Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Muscat, Oman.
- Operating Platform: The rollout will utilize the operational framework of J M Robertson & Company Limited, a subsidiary of Axton Capital that operates Department of Coffee locations.
- EPSRR Brand Portfolio: EPSRR’s domestic operations in India include Club Sulaimani Food & Beverages LLP, managing the Club Sulaimani and CS Signature brands, alongside the development of EPSRR Le Bistro for global markets.
- Executive Commentary: EPSRR Chairman Riyas Kalliyath stated that the agreement represents the company’s first overseas step, with Oman leading the rollout followed by Sri Lanka and broader international targets. EPSRR Vice Chairman and CEO Anand R. Iyer noted the signing signifies two major MOUs covering Sri Lanka and the company’s first GCC footprint.
- Local Readiness: Malith Perera, Director at Axton and JMR, noted that JMR’s historical background spanning more than 180 years and active cafes in both markets provide local operational insight and immediate market access.
Why This Matters
This partnership facilitates EPSRR’s expansion outside the Indian domestic market, where it has operated food and beverage formats across city centres, malls, and airports. By partnering with Axton Capital and utilizing JMR’s local infrastructure in Sri Lanka and Oman, the group leverages established regional operations rather than building supply and distribution networks from the ground up.
What to Watch Next
Following the initial developments in Muscat and Colombo, the partners plan to evaluate additional expansion opportunities across other parts of Oman and Sri Lanka. Company leadership has also indicated long-term intentions to review opportunities across the wider GCC, European, and American markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brands does EPSRR Holdings operate?
In India, EPSRR has invested in Club Sulaimani Food & Beverages LLP, which operates Club Sulaimani and CS Signature outlets. It is also developing the EPSRR Le Bistro concept for international expansion.
What role does J M Robertson & Company Limited play in this partnership?
J M Robertson & Company Limited, a subsidiary of Axton Capital, provides the operational platform in Sri Lanka and Oman. It operates Department of Coffee cafes in both countries, giving the joint venture immediate local presence.
Which cities are targeted first for expansion?
The collaboration will initially concentrate its hospitality and F&B initiatives in Muscat, Oman, and Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Source: Company announcement issued via NewsVoir and syndicated business releases.