An Asian coffee chain will open the first of what is expected to be a network of up to 50 stores across Melbourne and Sydney in the first half of 2015. OldTown White Coffee, will open its first Australian store on Elizabeth St in Melbourne’s CBD.. The Malaysian-based company, which has 240 stores across Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and China, has signed a 10 year lease at $250,000 a year for the 380sqm premises in an off market transaction handled by Savills Australia’s Vic
torian retail director, Michael Di Carlo.
Di Carlo said OldTown’s initial plans for the building, which has not been renovated for more than 20 years, include a two level restaurant and the reactivation of the second level warehouse.
First established in 1999, OldTown manufacturers its own instant beverage mixes including instant milk, coffee, and related products, and opened its first cafe in 2005.
The Australian master franchise is held by OTK, owned by Leong Kwan Yew and headed by MD, Soon Mun Kheen. OTK has signed a five year license.
In addition to stores, OldTown will set up a central distribution centre and kitchen to service the local market.
