Mumbai-based beverage startup Kathy's Beverages, which operates bubble tea brand Bobakat, has raised Rs 6 crore in a pre-Series A funding round as it looks to expand its presence across India.
The startup did not disclose the names of the lead investor or participating investors.
The fresh amount would be used for product innovation, team expansion, marketing and the rollout of new stores in metro cities and emerging urban markets.
Founded in 2024 by Rupali Ambegaonkar and Sannjeev Rao, Bobakat runs compact-format outlets in food courts and premium high streets, targeting urban consumers seeking bubble tea and other beverages.
It has served more than 10 lakh consumers so far and is aiming to achieve Rs 100 crore in net sales value within the next 36 months through a phased expansion strategy, the startup said.
Bobakat plans to open 35 stores in the 2026-27 financial year, followed by 50 stores annually over the next two years.
'The Indian consumer today is seeking more than just beverages; they are looking for experiences, community spaces, and global formats adapted for local preferences. With Bobakat, our vision has always been to build a culturally relevant beverage brand that combines quality, innovation, and accessibility. This fundraise gives us the momentum to strengthen our operations, innovate across our offerings, and scale aggressively across key Indian markets,' said Rupali Ambegaonkar, Founder of Bobakat.
'We see immense headroom in India's organised beverage ecosystem, especially within youth-driven consumption categories. Our compact and scalable retail model allows us to enter high-potential locations efficiently while maintaining strong unit economics. The next phase of growth will focus on expanding our store network, building stronger consumer recall, and creating a differentiated beverage experience,' said Sannjeev Rao, Co-Founder of Bobakat.