Libertario Coffee Opens Flagship Outlet in Gurugram

Caffe Nero, the European premium coffeehouse brand, has entered India through partnership with Trent Limited.

The brand was established with a vision to bring traditional Italian cafe culture and high-quality espresso to modern city life. The brand operates over 1,200 coffee houses globally, across 12 countries, including the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Poland, Cyprus, Croatia, Turkey, the UAE, Oman, and the United States.

With this partnership, the brand will open its first outlet in Mumbai,  with additional openings planned alongside Trent’s existing retail formats. This expansion represents the 12th market the group has expanded in.  

The brand will introduce its signature classico espresso blend alongside locally inspired food products. This move aligns with the brand strategy to continue international development strategy.

Gerry Ford, Founder and Group CEO, The Nero Group, shared with a media outlet that India is a fantastic market with huge potential and I’m pleased to continue the sustained growth and expansion of our brand in this new territory. Trent, will be a great partner for us as they share our vision for premium, specialty coffee, and I’m looking forward to working with them to establish and grow our brand in India.

Established in 1997 by Gerry Ford, The Nero Group is a major British hospitality and coffeehouse conglomerate headquartered in London, England. It is claimed to be the largest independent coffeehouse group in Europe. The company’s brand portfolio includes Caffè Nero, Coffee#1, 200 Degrees Coffee, and FCB Coffee. 

According to IMARC, the Indian cafe market size reached USD 424.6 Million in 2025 and is expected  to reach USD 1,152.1 Million by 2034, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 11.14% during 2026-2034. The market is driven by rising urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and growing café culture among millennials. The influence of global coffee chains, expanding premium coffee preferences, and demand for social and co-working spaces further boost growth. Additionally, digital ordering, quick service formats, and specialty coffee trends fuel the India coffee shops/cafes market share.

The Masala Story, a food brand established in 2020, has opened its first dine-in outlet on Golf Course Road, Gurugram. Known for its North Indian and Mughlai offerings through its delivery and catering services, the brand is now extending its presence to a dedicated dining space while continuing its existing operations.

The new outlet spans approximately 1,000 sq. ft. Designed as a small, intimate space, it features soft lighting and music, offering guests an opportunity to experience the brand’s food in a dine-in setting while continuing to serve its existing delivery customer base.

The choice of Golf Course Road was driven by the area’s mix of commercial and residential developments. Sector 54 has an established cluster of cafés and restaurants, while its offices and residential towers offer opportunities to cater to both walk-in diners and nearby households.

Chef Vatsala, Owner and Head Chef at The Masala Story, brings her culinary experience and understanding of food to the brand. Having previously worked as an academician, she pursued her interest in food through national and international culinary programmes. She oversees the kitchen’s day-to-day operations and personally develops the dishes and recipes on the menu.

The menu features the brand’s signature Butter Chicken, named among Zomato’s Top 10 in Gurgaon in 2025, along with Dal Makhani, slow-cooked and served in a clay handi. Other offerings include Paneer Lababdar, high-protein non-fried Paneer Cigar Rolls and Chicken Tikka. The dessert selection includes the signature Gulab Jamun Nut, a distinctive offering that brings together the familiar taste of gulab jamun in the shape of a doughnut, alongside Phirni.

Speaking about the expansion, Chef Vatsala, Owner & Head Chef, The Masala Story, said, “Our guests have trusted us with their meals at home, and this space lets us welcome them to our table for the first time. Every dish we serve carries a story written in spice, from our Butter Chicken to our slow-cooked Dal Makhani, and Golf Course Road, with its energy and love for good food, felt like the perfect place to share it.”

The Masala Story also operates a catering business for private and corporate gatherings, with offerings that include grazing tables, charcuterie and cheese boards, Mediterranean mezze, Mexican spreads, executive lunch combinations and customised Jain, vegan and vegetarian menus. With its first dine-in destination on Golf Course Road, The Masala Story takes another step in bringing its flavours closer to Gurugram’s food community.

Theobroma has opened a new store at Dadar West, strengthening its footprint in the region.

Commenting on the store launch, Azhar Punjabi, General Manager Business Development, Theobroma Foods Private Limited, says, ‘‘Strengthening our presence in one of Mumbai’s prominent high-footfall neighbourhoods,  marks another strategic step in our expansion plans.’’

Theobroma is an Indian bakery and patisserie chain widely  known for its signature, indulgent brownies and "Food of the Gods" branding. The brand was founded in 2004 by sisters Kainaz Messman Harchandrai and Tina Messman Wykes. They opened a small storefront at Colaba Causeway, Mumbai, incorporating family recipes. In July 2025, private equity firm ChrysCapital acquired a 90% stake in Theobroma for INR 2,410 crore from its founders and ICICI Venture.

The brand currently operates over 334 stores across India, spanning more than 60 cities  with key markets in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and other cities.

According to IMARC, the Indian bakery market size increased from USD 16.40 Billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 32.05 Billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 8.76% from 2026-2034. This growth is fueled by rapid urban developments, rising disposable incomes, evolving consumption patterns, and the widespread adoption of convenient ready-to-eat options. The expanding organized retail landscape, coupled with increasing health awareness and demand for premium artisanal offerings, continues to reshape traditional bakery consumption, while government initiatives promoting millet-based and nutritionally enriched products are accelerating product diversification across urban and semi-urban markets, thereby expanding the Indian bakery market. 

Canada based quick service chain Mary’s Brown Chicken, also known as MB Chicken, plans to open 220 outlets in India by 2030. As a part of its expansion strategy, the brand will open 10 outlets by the end of this year.

The brand has a revenue target of INR 550 crore by 2030, showcasing the brand’s targeted expansion in the country.  The brand is also finalizing 21 more locations where they have either signed the agreement or in fit-out phase. The brand is seeking HNIs, institutional investors and multi-brand operators for franchise partnerships.

MB Chicken was founded in 1969 by Canadian entrepreneurs Pat Tarrant and Cyril Fleming. The brand is named after a Virginia-based woman Mary Brown who is known for the family recipe of fried chicken. MB chicken later took the recipe rights from her and renamed the Canadian venture to honour her. The brand was later acquired by Gregory Roberts in 2007.

The brand entered India in 2025 with a flagship outlet in Chandigarh. The brand since then is expanding its presence in Delhi-NCR and Punjab. The brand will open new outlets in Gurugram, Haryana; Banga, Punjab; Dwarka, Delhi; and Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

Recently, the QSR brand has also partnered with Hindustan Petroleum to bring Mary Brown's Chicken to HP fuel stations across India. 

Fiagro’s Pizza has announced the opening of a new outlet in Chambenahalli, Banglore, strengthening its footprint in the region. The brand has earlier unveiled its outlet in Patna, solidifying its presence in Tier I and Tier II cities.

The American pizza brand entered the Indian market through Franchise India and is targeting rapid growth across key cities, with an ambition to build a network of 100 outlets by 2027. The brand has international presence in Cyprus and Nigeria, apart from the United States with a model centred on daily in-store dough preparation, natural ingredients and real cheese.

Figaro’s Pizza offers its signature pizzas with freshly prepared dough and a wide selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Commenting on the launch Gaurav Marya, Chairman,Franchise India, said ‘‘Figaro’s Pizza's new launch in Bangalore reflects the brand’s commitment to accelerating its physical store expansion in India. Figaro’s Pizza resonates strongly with Indian consumers not just in metros, but also Tier I and Tier II cities. We are excited to support Figaro Pizza's growth journey in India and look forward to many more milestones ahead."

The brand has over 3 decades of  dining and QSR experience, with a focus on fresh ingredients, menu variety and accessible dining facility to the customers. Franchise India continues to support the brand’s store expansion strategy and operational integration across India’s fast-growing QSR sector. 
 

Barista Coffee has expanded its retail network to 555 cafes with the opening of a new outlet in Salt Lake, Kolkata. The launch marks the company's seventh cafe in the city as the homegrown coffee chain continues to expand its presence in India's cafe market.

Opened on October 30, 2026, the new outlet follows a hybrid format that combines food and beverages with spaces for work, meetings and social interactions. The format reflects the growing role of cafes as alternative workspaces and places for informal gatherings.

The Salt Lake cafe offers a range of beverages, including signature coffee, protein coffee, matcha and bubble tea. Its food menu features gourmet sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, rolls and English breakfast options. The offerings cater to customers looking for quick refreshments, casual meals and spaces to work or meet.

The outlet is designed to accommodate work-from-home professionals, groups and customers seeking a place for both work and leisure. The format brings together dining and collaborative spaces under one roof, reflecting changing consumer expectations from cafe environments.

Rajat Agrawal, CEO of Barista Coffee, said, “Reaching the milestone of 555 cafés is a proud moment for Barista Coffee and a testament to the trust our customers have placed in us, the dedication of our teams, and the commitment of our partners.”

He added that the company would continue to focus on expanding its presence, developing its offerings and entering new markets. Agrawal also acknowledged the contribution of customers, employees and franchise partners to the company's growth.

The latest opening adds to Barista's presence in Kolkata, where the chain now operates seven cafes. The expansion comes as cafe operators adapt their formats and menus to changing consumer preferences, including demand for varied beverage options and spaces that support work and socialising.

Founded more than two decades ago, Barista Coffee is among India's early cafe chains. According to the company, its network spans more than 550 cafes across over 160 cities. Its portfolio includes coffee and other beverages alongside food options, with the menu evolving to address changing consumer tastes.

The award-winning and critically acclaimed Harlem Shake is set to enter the Indian market through a strategic partnership with Franchise India, with advisory support from FranGlobal, the international arm of Franchise India. The New York-born burger and shake brand known for its signature smash burgers, handcrafted shakes and distinctive neighbourhood-inspired dining experience.

The partnership marks a new chapter in the brand’s international expansion. The brand has entered into a Master Franchise Agreement and aims to open 75 units across multiple Indian markets, providing opportunities for regional master franchise partners and area developers across multiple Indian markets.

Founded by Jelena Pasic in 2012 and officially opened in Harlem, New York, in 2013, Harlem Shake has built its identity around classic American comfort food, nostalgic diner-inspired design and a strong connection to the community it serves. The brand’s menu features signature burgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, grilled cheese, sides and handcrafted milkshakes, bringing together familiar American flavours and a distinctly New York-inspired dining experience. Through its India entry, Harlem Shake aims to introduce its signature concept to Indian consumers while exploring growth opportunities in the country’s evolving foodservice and organised dining sector.

Jelena Pasic, Founder and Chief Executive Officer,Harlem Shake, commented “India represents an important growth opportunity for Harlem Shake as we continue to expand our presence internationally. We are excited to partner with FranGlobal and Franchise India to introduce our brand to a new market. Harlem Shake has always been about more than burgers and shakes; it is about creating a welcoming experience rooted in culture, community and great food. We look forward to exploring the opportunities India offers and building meaningful connections with consumers and franchise partners.”

Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India Brands Limited, added “Harlem Shake brings a distinctive New York dining concept to India, combining a recognisable American menu with a strong brand identity and an experience built around community and culture. Through FranGlobal’s international franchising expertise and Franchise India’s understanding of the Indian market, we aim to connect the brand with suitable franchise partners and support its expansion across key Indian territories. This partnership also reflects the growing opportunity for international food and beverage brands to enter India through structured franchise-led growth.”

The India partnership aligns with Harlem Shake’s broader growth ambitions, leveraging strategic franchise relationships to reach new markets while retaining the brand’s distinctive identity. Through Franchise India and FranGlobal, the brand will explore regional development opportunities and connect with entrepreneurs and investors interested in bringing the Harlem Shake experience to India.

Harlem Shake is exploring franchise-led expansion opportunities in India through regional master franchise and area-development models. Prospective franchise partners and investors interested in exploring opportunities to bring the brand to their respective markets can connect with Franchise India and FranGlobal for further information on partnership and development opportunities.

Mumbai-based bakery and patisserie brand Theobroma will open its first two stores in Kolkata on October 30, 2026, marking its entry into Eastern India. The new outlets will be located in Salt Lake and New Alipore, expanding the brand's physical retail presence beyond its existing markets. The announcement was made by Rishi Gour, CEO of Theobroma. Actor Sauraseni Maitra also attended the store opening event.

Both outlets will follow the brand's bakery format, offering dine-in, takeaway and delivery services. The menu will include cakes, pastries, brownies, cookies, savouries, sandwiches and beverages, with products baked fresh daily. The Kolkata stores will offer several of Theobroma's signature products, including Overload and Millionaire brownies, Dutch Truffle and Tiramisu. Customers will also be able to purchase festive gift boxes and hampers through the stores and delivery services.

The expansion follows consumer interest in the brand's entry into Kolkata. Earlier this month, a video showing a Theobroma signboard being installed in the city gained traction on social media, drawing attention to its upcoming arrival.

Rishi Gour, CEO, Theobroma said, “Kolkata has been asking for Theobroma for a while, and we didn’t want to arrive with anything less than our best. This is a city that takes its sweets seriously and doesn’t wait for a big occasion to enjoy them. Whether it’s a brownie after a long day or a cake for the family, we want to be part of the moments people here make for themselves and for each other. Salt Lake and New Alipore are the start of our story in Eastern India.”

The Kolkata entry adds a new region to Theobroma's retail expansion plans. The brand, which originated in Mumbai, is known for its brownies, cakes and other bakery products. Its new outlets will give customers in the city access to its product range through physical stores and delivery channels. With the opening of the Salt Lake and New Alipore outlets, Theobroma is entering Kolkata's bakery and dessert market, adding two locations to its growing retail network.

McDonald’s has crossed the 500th restaurant milestone in West and South India.

Commenting on this significant landmark, Akshay Jatia, CEO, Westlife Foodworld Limited, said: ‘‘Today, we celebrated the opening of our 500th McDonald's restaurant across West and South India in GIFT City, Gujarat, an important milestone made possible by the commitment of our people, the support of our partners and the trust of our customers. This milestone comes at a particularly special time as we celebrate 30 years of McDonald's in India and mark the opening of the 4000th McDonald's restaurant in the Asia Business Unit.’’

He shares that while milestones are important, what excites me most is the opportunity ahead. The brand remains focused on serving more customers, strengthening its capabilities, creating meaningful career opportunities for the  people and building a business that continues to grow responsibly and sustainably.

‘‘Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this journey. I'm looking forward to what we will build together in the years ahead,’’ says Akshay.

In India, McDonald’s operates under two separate corporate entities divided by geography. The South and West region is owned and operated by Westlife Foodworld Ltd. (formerly Westlife Development), through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. (HRPL). The company pioneered the integration of McCafé—their premium coffee and dessert brand extension—within regular outlets across the South and West before it expanded nationwide. The company is aggressively expanding, across West and South India.

Coffee Buddy has announced the opening of the new outlet in Indiranagar, Bangalore. The Filipino coffee chain has entered India through master franchise agreement with Franchise India, offering premium arabic coffee to Indian customers.

The brand also has a footprint in Mumbai and Delhi, opening its first outlet in Mumbai in August 2026. The coffee chain has an exclusive brand outlet and kiosk format in the country.  

Commenting on the brand’s store opening in India, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, said: “The opening of the new Coffee Buddy outlet in Bengaluru marks an important milestone in the brand’s growth journey. Bengaluru’s café culture, young consumer base, and growing preference for quality coffee experiences make it a promising market for us. Through this new outlet, the brand aims to bring our distinctive coffee offerings and welcoming customers while strengthening its presence in the city. The brand is further exploring  the growth opportunities, building a niche for itself in India’s cafe sector.’’

The brand focuses on its premium coffee, making it accessible and affordable to its customers. They specialize in using 100% Arabica and Robusta beans.

The brand started its journey in November 2019 by two working college students, Mark and Christine, who started a small online coffee bean store in Manila. In 2021, Coffee Buddy expanded its product variety by introducing bottled coffee, making it even easier for customers to enjoy café-quality drinks at home. The new offering quickly gained popularity in the online market, allowing more people to experience the brand’s handcrafted flavors. In 2022,  the brand opened its physical café at Quezon City, Manila and started franchising in 2023. The brand expanded its footprint to multiple physical, aesthetic spaces across the Philippines.

Australia based restaurant brand The Pancake Parlour has entered India through strategic collaboration with FranGobal, a franchise advisory arm of Franchise India.

Inspired by the pancake house in the United States, the brand started its journey in 1969 in Melbourne with no menu and just a stack of pancakes. Today, The Pancake Parlour has grown to 13 restaurants across the city, offering warm hospitality and handcrafted meals to its customers. The brand sources fresh, locally grown ingredients, from free-range eggs to chemical-free chicken, and make everything in-house daily.

The brand’s mission is to bring people together through unforgettable dining experiences that foster connection and a sense of community through its pancakes. It aims to become a go-to destination for every celebration, milestone, and every day indulgence

The Pancake Parlour has exceptional potential for business expansion via franchising, offering strategic support to its franchise partners at all levels, including store launch, store architecture & design, recipes & menu innovation, systems & IT tools support, training, and website & social media support.

Commenting on the brand entry in India, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, said: “With over six decades of experience in family dining experiences, The Pancake Parlour brings a strong legacy and a well-established brand proposition to the Indian market, evolving with the changing consumer tastes and lifestyles. We believe the brand has significant potential to connect with Indian consumers and build a strong footprint through a scalable, franchise expansion.’’

The brand commits to foster a culture of trust, growth, and innovation to create an environment where people feel valued, motivated, and ready to thrive. 
 

Oodles Wok, a family-owned, multi-award-winning Asian fusion food brand from the UK, enters the Indian market through strategic collaboration with FranGlobal, the international business arm of Franchise India Group. India will become its fifth market for the brand’s international growth, apart from the UK, UAE, Canada and Qatar.

Known for fresh food, bold flavors and a unique dining experience, Oodles Wok focuses on ‘live cooking theatrics’, fresh and quality ingredients, offering ‘build-your-own box’ concepts for its customers.

The company was founded in 2010 in Leicester, UK and quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to food where each dish is expertly created by the chefs in front of the customers. Currently, the brand has presence in over 50 locations across the UK, UAE, Canada and Qatar.

Shoyab Umar, Founder & CEO, Oodles Wok, said, “When we started Oodles Wok in Leicester (UK) back in 2010, we had a simple vision – to bring people together through great food, bold flavors and a unique dining experience. To see how far we've come, growing across the UK, UAE, Canada and Qatar, is something I'm incredibly proud of. Expanding into India as our fifth market is another huge milestone for us, especially with its incredible food culture and appreciation for bold flavors. We're looking forward to introducing Oodles Wok to a whole new audience and continuing our journey as a global brand.”

Oodles Wok focuses on a small menu, concentrating on food quality and service. By experimenting with the dishes and working closely with the customers, Oodles Wok has refined its menu for 2 years after its establishment, embracing fusion of spices and ingredients. The brand has also invested in its own production unit, producing their own recipes and sauces.

In 2024, Oodles Wok expanded its network beyond the UK, opening its first outlets in Dubai, UAE. In 2025, the brand accelerated its international growth by signing a Master Franchise agreement in Canada, opening its outlets in Lebovic in Scarborough, Toronto, and Mayfield in Brampton, Ontario. Building on this momentum, the brand has also signed a Master Franchise agreement with Qatar, opening two outlets in City Center Mall in West Bay, Doha, and Doha Festival City Mall, north of Doha.

The brand’s outlets are present in three formats- kiosks-spanning a size of 450 sq. feet, food court-built in an area of 750 sq. feet and standalone outlets-having an area of 1000 sq. feet. The outlets are present in high footfall areas, striking a balance between walk-in customers and delivery trade.

The brand has also won two prestigious awards: ‘Noodies Restaurant of the Year’ from British QSR Franchise Award and ‘Editor Choice Award’ from QSR Media UK Redcat Conference Awards, showcasing their testament in QSR and the restaurant sector.

The brand’s franchise business model and strong supplier partnership is key to its success. 

Commenting on the brand’s entry into India, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, said, “Oodles Wok’s entry into the Indian market, following its successful expansion in Canada, UAE and Qatar, marks a promising step in its international growth journey. The brand’s live-cooking format and immersive dining experience are well-positioned to appeal to Indian consumers seeking freshly prepared meals. This differentiated concept also presents an attractive opportunity for investors looking to tap into India’s growing appetite for innovative Asian cuisine and explore the potential for profitable business growth.”

Ismail Patel, Co-Founder & COO, Oodles Wok, added, “India represents an exciting new chapter in Oodles Wok's international growth, becoming our fifth market alongside the UK, UAE, Canada and Qatar. We've built a strong brand around quality, innovation and understanding what our customers love. As we enter this vibrant market, our focus is on building strong local partnerships, delivering the Oodles Wok experience and creating a brand that Indian customers can connect with. We're excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to growing our presence in India.”

Nom Nom Express, the Pan-Asian quick-service restaurant brand operated by Aspect QSR, is set to open a new outlet in Malad West, Mumbai, on October 16, 2026. The opening is part of the brand's expansion strategy, with its network now spanning 50 outlets.

To mark the opening, the restaurant is offering its entire menu at Rs 99 or less on October 16. The promotional offer is applicable exclusively at the newly opened Malad West outlet. The menu includes dim sums, baos, wok bowls and Pan-Asian starters. The brand's quick-service format focuses on serving Asian dishes at accessible price points.

The new outlet adds to Nom Nom Express's presence in Mumbai's food service market as quick-service restaurant brands continue to expand through neighbourhood outlets and value-led offerings. The Malad West opening also gives the brand an opportunity to reach consumers seeking convenient dining options in the area. The launch-day offer is limited to the Malad West location and will be available on October 16, 2026.

California-based modern casual dining restaurant chain Sourdough & Co. is entering the Indian market in collaboration with FranGlobal, entering the fast-growing Indian market. The brand plans to expand its outlet network across key markets, leveraging a franchise-led growth strategy to establish a strong presence and rapidly scale across the country.

Based in California, US, Sourdough & Co. is a modern casual dining restaurant that brings traditionally crafted, naturally fermented bread to its consumers. The brand, known for its healthy menu items and balanced meals with transparent nutritional and calories intakes, gradually expanded to other US states, establishing a reputation for consistency, operational efficiency and modern consumer appeal. The brand also offers catering services to its customers.

Today, Sourdough & Co. is positioned for continued growth, offering entrepreneurs a proven concept rooted in heritage, supported by modern systems, and aligned with long-term consumer trends toward mindful, health-conscious dining.

With over 100 locations open and more than 120 currently in development all over America, Sourdough & Co. operates through a franchise model in the US with a proven training and support model designed to help owners open confidently and scale efficiently. The system is built to reduce friction, protect brand standards, and drive consistent performance across locations.

Industry research shows that fast-casual is perceived as a healthier, higher-quality alternative, with consumers demonstrating a strong preference for elevated versions of familiar foods. This shift in behavior supports the brand’s premium positioning, stronger unit economics, and repeat visitation, key drivers for the brand’s sustainable growth.

India represents a high-potential market for Sourdough & Co. as an organised foodservice brand. The casual dining brand plans to open outlets across India, targeting retail partnerships with entrepreneurs, multi-unit and multi-brand franchise operators targeting key markets.

Commenting on the brand’s India entry, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, shares, ‘‘For more than a decade, Sourdough & Co. has operated as a stable, growth-focused company based on its franchise model, partnering closely with owners to help them build strong, profitable businesses. India represents a strong market for the brand to grow, with the brand’s long-term experience in ‘franchising’ supporting it to rapidly scale its operations across the country.’’

The brand’s  franchise model completely supports its investors at each stage of development. From launching the brand and building community visibility, tocreating a warm, hospitable ambience for its guests, the brand offers detailed training, team resources, onsite visits from specialists, and monthly follow up, helping the franchisees to grow and prosper.

Sourdough & Co. aims for a wider rollout across India in the coming times, positioning the country as a strategic market in the brand’s global franchise journey. 
 

Harry Ramsden’s Group has signed a milestone master franchise agreement to introduce the iconic British fish and chip brand to India, marking a definitive step in the brand’s global expansion as it approaches its 2028 centenary. Under the terms of the agreement, master franchise partner Franchise India will develop a minimum of 60 Harry Ramsden’s restaurants across India over the next decade, with the inaugural location planned to debut in early 2027.

Founded in West Yorkshire in 1928, Harry Ramsden’s stands as one of the world’s most celebrated names in traditional British fish and chips. The brand has been strategically expanding its global footprint through franchise and licensing partnerships, driven by its ambition to become the premier fish-and-chips-led enterprise globally. The Indian partnership will introduce the brand’s signature hand-battered fish and chips alongside a curated menu tailored for the local market, catering to India’s dynamic and rapidly evolving foodservice sector.

James Fleming, Chief Executive Officer, Harry Ramsden’s Group, commented:“India represents a tremendously exciting opportunity for Harry Ramsden’s. The market is dynamic, fast-growing, and increasingly receptive to premium international culinary brands. Signing this master franchise agreement is a pivotal milestone in our international expansion strategy, and we are delighted to partner with Mr. Gaurav Marya and his team to bring the Harry Ramsden’s experience to consumers across India.

Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, added:“Harry Ramsden’s is a globally revered brand with a unique heritage and exceptional market positioning. We see immense potential in introducing this iconic British dining experience to the Indian consumer and scaling the brand significantly over the coming years. The agreement aligns with Harry Ramsden’s Group’s broader strategy to drive international growth through robust local partnerships, scalable operational formats, and strategic new market opportunities.”

Harry Ramsden's is actively expanding its presence both internationally and across the UK through a blend of company-owned sites and strategic franchise partnerships. The brand offers an array of versatile restaurant formats and licensed concession models—including its established 'Proudly Serving Harry Ramsden's' programme, which is currently operational across major retail and travel networks.

Operators and investors interested in exploring franchise or licensing opportunities are invited to contact the corporate franchise team directly.

Founded in West Yorkshire in 1928, Harry Ramsden's is one of the UK's most iconic and cherished heritage brands. Originating as a modest wooden hut in Guiseley, the brand flourished on a foundation of culinary craft, premium quality ingredients, and exceptional hospitality—cultivating a reputation that has endured for nearly a century.

In 1952, to mark the restaurant's 21st anniversary, founder Harry hosted 'The Big Fry'—serving more than 10,000 portions of fish and chips in a single day, a world record at the time. That spirit of celebration and community remains central to the brand's identity today.

Now operating a diverse portfolio of corporate restaurants, franchise locations, and licensing partnerships with major UK retail and travel operators, Harry Ramsden's remains dedicated to delivering its world-famous fish and chips to an ever-growing global audience.

Happitea launches a new outlet in Kemps Corner, South Mumbai, strengthening its footprint in the metro city.

The brand enters India through master franchise partnership with FranGlobal and has signed 35 franchise agreements across 8 states. The international beverage brand from Vietnam’s Phúc Tea, aims to expand its network to 150 stores in the near future.

The new outlet will offer innovative beverage experiences, specialty teas and bubble tea to its customers in the city, as customers in Mumbai prefer premium and health-focused beverage options.

Mumbai is the most physically active city in India, driven by fast-paced commuters running culture, and consumers opting for healthier food options, making it a prime destination for healthy cafes and restaurants.

Commenting on the new store launch, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, said: “The launch of HappiTea’s new store in Mumbai marks an important milestone in the brand’s expansion journey, strengthening its presence in one of India’s most dynamic retail and foodservice markets. Strategically located in a high-footfall area, the new outlet serves as a key customer touchpoint, enhancing brand visibility and accessibility while creating opportunities to engage with a wider consumer base. The store is envisioned as a premium destination where customers can explore HappiTea’s diverse beverage portfolio and enjoy a distinctive, contemporary café culture. This expansion reflects the brand’s commitment to building a strong retail footprint and tapping into the growing demand for beverage destinations in India.” 

Faasos, India’s much-loved wrap brand from Rebel Foods, is set to open its first dedicated physical outlet at Aeromall, Pune, on 10 October 2026, marking a new chapter in its 22-year journey. The launch will bring the brand back to the city where it started in 2004, as Faasos returns to its roots with a place of its own.

Over the past 22 years, Faasos has grown from its beginnings in Pune into one of India’s most recognised wrap brands, bringing convenient and flavourful food to customers across the country. From homes and offices to colleges and wherever cravings take them, the brand has brought its wraps to people for over two decades. The new outlet now gives existing customers an opportunity to experience a familiar favourite in a physical setting, while creating a new, accessible space for younger audiences to discover Faasos.

The move into a dedicated physical format extends Faasos’ relationship with customers beyond delivery, giving them a new way to experience the brand. At Aeromall, the outlet brings the familiar Faasos experience into a retail setting, creating an in-person touchpoint for customers in Pune.

Speaking at the launch, Ankush Grover, Co-founder and Global CEO, Rebel Foods, said, “Pune holds a special place for Faasos, as the city where it began 22 years ago before growing into a wrap brand enjoyed by consumers across India. As we continue to build our brands, we also look at how we can bring them closer to consumers in ways that feel relevant to them. With the new outlet at Aeromall, we look forward to making Faasos more accessible to customers in Pune, while continuing to serve the wraps they have come to know and enjoy. We look forward to welcoming customers and bringing the Faasos experience to them in a new way.”

The opening will be celebrated with special offers for customers visiting the new outlet. The first 200 customers will receive a FREE Faasos wrap, with celebrations beginning at 11 AM on 10 October. For the rest of the launch day, customers can enjoy the Wrapchik range starting at just ₹59.

For Faasos, the opening marks an important step in bringing the brand closer to consumers through a dedicated physical presence. After 22 years of bringing its wraps to customers across the country, Faasos is now creating a space for customers to enjoy the brand in the city where it all began.
 

Sri Lanka-based premium seafood dining brand The The Fat Crab has entered the Indian market in collaboration with FranGlobal, the international franchise expansion arm of Franchise India. The brand plans to expand through a Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated (FOFO) model, targeting metropolitan and Tier 1 cities across the country.

The Fat Crab is a premium seafood dining brand originating from Sri Lanka, introducing customers to Sri Lankan and Louisiana-style Cajun seafood. The brand later expanded to the United Kingdom and currently operates stores across Sri Lanka and the UK.

The Fat Crab is known for its experiential dining format and distinctive “no-plate” approach, in which fresh seafood is served directly in steamer bags. Designed for family-style sharing, the format combines premium seafood, interactive dining and an engaging restaurant ambience.

The brand’s signature offerings include Sri Lankan lagoon mud crabs, Jaffna crab curry with moringa leaves and seafood platters. The Fat Crab also places emphasis on the ethical sourcing of ingredients as part of its commitment to quality and responsible dining.

Commenting on the brand’s entry into India, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India, said: “The brand holds significant potential in the Indian market, where the organised seafood dining segment remains relatively limited. Its entry not only brings premium seafood offerings to Indian consumers but also introduces a distinctive dining experience that combines quality, variety and an engaging ambience. With its differentiated proposition, the brand has the opportunity to attract a wider customer base and create a strong presence in India’s evolving foodservice landscape.”

Through its partnership with FranGlobal, The Fat Crab will seek franchise partners to establish a presence in key metros and Tier 1 cities. The expansion will focus on bringing the brand’s distinctive seafood menu, family-style dining format and experiential restaurant concept to Indian consumers.

FranGlobal is the international franchise expansion arm of Franchise India, supporting international brands in entering and developing their presence in the Indian market through strategic partnerships, franchise development and market expansion services. 

Delhi-based food brand Khan Chacha has expanded its footprint in North India with the opening of a new outlet in Sector 8B, Chandigarh. The launch strengthens the brand's presence in the Tricity region, where it already operates outlets at Elante Mall, Chandigarh, and CP67 Mall, Mohali.

Located near Chandigarh's popular Gedi Route, the new outlet is positioned in one of the city's busiest food and social hubs. The store has been designed primarily as a takeaway-focused format and includes outdoor seating for approximately 10 to 12 guests.

The outlet will serve several of Khan Chacha's signature menu offerings, including Chicken Tikka, Mutton Seekh Kebab, Chicken Rolls, Mutton Rolls, Paneer Tikka, and other North Indian food items. Customers can also place orders through food delivery platforms Zomato and Swiggy.

Sidhant Kalra, Director, Khan Chacha said, "Sector 8 has its own place in Chandigarh’s food and social culture. People come here to meet friends, drive around, grab something to eat and simply spend time together. We wanted Khan Chacha to become a natural part of that routine. With this outlet, we’re bringing our food closer to an area where Chandigarh already loves to eat and hang out."

Founded in Delhi, Khan Chacha has built its presence over several decades through its range of kebabs, tikkas, roomali rolls, and North Indian quick-service offerings. The company has expanded beyond its original Khan Market location while continuing to focus on its core menu categories.

The latest opening reflects the brand's strategy to strengthen its presence in high-footfall food destinations and increase accessibility for consumers across key markets. With a takeaway-led model, limited outdoor seating, and delivery integration, the Sector 8B outlet is designed to cater to evolving consumer preferences for convenience and quick-service dining. The Chandigarh expansion further reinforces Khan Chacha's position in the region's growing quick service restaurant (QSR) market and food delivery ecosystem.

South Korean foodservice company GOPIZZA has rebranded itself as GTGO, marking its transition from a pizza-focused business to a broader Korean food and beverage platform. The move coincides with the company's fifth anniversary and reflects its growing presence across international markets, including India.

The rebranding comes as GTGO strengthens its multi-brand strategy, which currently includes GOPIZZA, Korean street food brand Gochujang, and Korean dessert brand Dalkomi. In India, the company operates more than 65 outlets across these three brands, positioning itself within the country's growing Korean food and quick service restaurant (QSR) market. The company said the new corporate identity reflects its focus on building a diversified food and beverage business rather than operating solely as a pizza chain. GTGO's expansion strategy is supported by its food technology capabilities, including proprietary conveyor ovens and compact kiosk systems developed for international markets.

Globally, the company's pizza technology solutions are deployed across more than 1,600 stores through partnerships with retail and entertainment chains such as GS25 and CGV. The company is also exploring business-to-business opportunities by offering its food technology and kiosk solutions to external brands and retail partners.

Mahesh Reddy, Co-founder and CEO, GTGO said, "The company's multi-brand approach is being adapted to individual markets and is central to its international expansion strategy."

Lim Jae-won, Global CEO and Founder, GTGO added, "This is an important milestone in expanding the business beyond what was previously confined to GOPIZZA, and in advancing as a global brand built on food technology."

India remains a key growth market for the company, driven by rising consumer interest in Korean cuisine, Korean street food, and international QSR concepts. Through GOPIZZA, Gochujang, and Dalkomi, GTGO aims to strengthen its position in the country's evolving foodservice and restaurant industry. The company said its new identity will support future expansion across foodservice, food technology, and multi-brand restaurant operations as it scales across global markets.