Magnolia Bakery keen to enter India via franchising

Magnolia Bakery, a New York based bakery now plans to enter India via franchising. The brand is looking for franchisees in the country and is expected to meet some prospective partners from India soon.

The company got the approval to expand via franchise internationally and their entry into India will be part of a worldwide push by the mini-chain. It is currently present in six locations, four in New York’s Manhattan, one in Los Angeles and one in Dubai. There are few other countries that Magnolia Bakery wants to enter like Brazil, Japan and Qatar.

The $20-million company aims to open its first store in India next year, or by 2013, depending on how soon it gets reliable franchisees. Prospective franchisee must have experience in the fashion and lifestyle business and need to investment good amount of money. A background in the food business can be helpful but is not necessary. The brand plans to grow slow and plans to open outlets in big cities like Delhi and Mumbai in the initial stages.