India on a platter

Indian restaurant sector was estimated to be worth Rs.58, 000 crore in 2008, out of which Rs. 8,000 crore or 7.24 per cent is accounted by the organised sector.

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur then taking a franchise of a restaurant providing Indian food is the best option as it has enormous untapped potential.

The growing disposable incomes and fast paced life is making people explore the restaurants. Restaurants serving Indian food are more in demand and top the priority list of majority of people. People prefer to binge on international cuisines but the frequency of visiting the Indian restaurants is higher because Indians are rooted in their tradition and are very conscious about the nutritious value that Indian food provides.  These reasons have lead to the opening of restaurants providing Indian food. Commenting on the demand of Indian food, DS Chawla, MD, Chawla Chicken Corner said, “We get calls from more than 50 aspiring franchisees everyday. This shows the popularity of our brand in Indian food industry.”

Major players

Indian food industry has tremendous growth prospects. This can be seen by looking at the major food giants covering the franchising arena. Moti Mahal, Bikanervala Foods, Chawla Chicken Corner, Nirula’s, Sagar Ratna, Sankalp food chain etc are some of the important players who have taken the franchise route for expansion.

The south Indian cuisine is quite popular in the other regions. According to Sadashiva Bhatt, Director, Sagar Ratna, “We have progressed by opening so many outlets across east, west and north. We are coming up with another outlet in Delhi which will cater to the Jain community to widen our horizon.”

Fame of Indian food internationally

Indian food is quite famous in the West. The authentic taste of Indian food is not just relished by the Indians abroad but the foreigners too. The increasing demand of spicy and sumptuous Indian curries and flavours have lead to the opening of Indian restaurants abroad.  One such example is Queen’s Tandoor, one of the biggest chains of Indian restaurants in Indonesia. It provides both the Indian and Chinese food to its customers. Another example is ‘Rasoee’, a Toronto based contemporary quick-casual Indian restaurant, which has also adopted the franchise model for expansion.

Requisites in this sector

Taking a franchise of a restaurant is a great option for all aspiring franchisees as it does not require huge investments and efforts. Bhatt informed, “We are very particular about the location of the franchised outlet. Besides location, franchisee tops the priority list. He needs to be dedicated and hard working individual.” The criterion to become a successful franchisee does not require much.  When asked about the kind of training and support provided to the franchisees, Chawla said, “It is not very difficult to run a restaurant. Moreover we provide our franchisees with everything including qualified chefs as well.” He further added, “We provide our franchisees with one week training. This training is imparted for managing the restaurant and its patrons.”