In a recent social media outburst Anupam Mittal, a judge on Shark Tank India and founder of People Group which operates Shaadi.com, took a sharp aim at Global Coffee giant Starbucks.

Mittal’s critique centered on what he perceives as Starbucks' growing departure from its core identity as a coffeehouse, accusing the company of prioritizing sugary desserts over quality coffee.

The comments have sparked a heated discussion online, with many customers echoing similar concerns.

Mittal’s pointed remarks were shared on X formerly known as Twitter, in the wake of Starbucks’s announcement that Brian Niccol will be taking over as CEO,replacing Laxman Narasimhan, the company’ Indian-origin leader.

The news of this leadership change seemed to prompt Mittal’s candid post, where he suggested that Starbucks is facing“inevitable value erosion” unless it returns to its original mission or reinvents its purpose. 

The response to Mittal’s post was mixed but largely supportive.

Many users agrees with his assessment, pointing out that the sugar level in Starbucks’ beverages and desserts are alarmingly high, often masked by the company’s branding as a premium coffeehouse. This criticism resonates with a growing awareness about sugar consumption and its health implications particularly in urban populations where Starbucks has a significant presence. 

However, some users offered a different perspective, noting that in markets like India, the general consumer base may not be as concerned about sugar intake.These users suggested that the success of Starbucks in such regions is partly due to its ability to carter to local tastes, which often include a preference for sweeter flavors This raises the question of whether Starbucks’ strategy is driven by consumer demand or a deliberate shift in its product offerings. 

Mittal’s critique is a call to action for Starbucks to either return to its roots as a premium coffee provider or to innovate in a way that aligns with modern consumer preferences for healthier choices. As Brain Niccol prepares to take the helm, the challenge will be to address these concerns without alienating the brand’s loyal customer base. 

With its leadership transition underway Starbucks has yet to respond to Mittal’s comments. The coming months with reveal whether the company will take steps to address the criticism or continue its current trajectory. Either way, Mittal’s remarks have ignited a conversation that could influence Starbucks strategy in one of its fastest growing market.