ICE CREAM PARLOUR SEGMENT CONTINUES TO GROW IN INDIA

Swensens, a USA based chain of ice-cream restaurants is venturing in the Indian market through their Asian License Minor International, supported by Franchise India International, which strategizes and specializes in assisting international brands with their entry in the Indian market. Franchise India International is a division of Franchise India Group, the largest integrated franchise and retail solution provider.

Minor International is amongst the largest hospitality and leisure companies in the Asia Pacific region, with a prominent existence in hospitality. Minor International has developed into a multi segment leader in Hotels, spa’s and restaurants over the past few years and with Swensens as one such brand under its umbrella for expansion in India. They bring Swensens to India with an aim to provide consumers fun and friendly casual-dining with a wide selection of ice cream creation, signature sundaes , coffee and a separate menu designed especially for kids served either at their restaurants or delivered home. They have already started with Swensens expansion in India by exploring their options and have reviewed locations in South India with an expectation to open at least 5 outlets across the country in 2010. They are seeking dedicated partners in rest of India with Franchise India International. Swensens opened 15 stores worldwide in the year 2009 and plan a further 20 in 2010.

Swensen’s name their signature products after key landmarks of San Francisco where the brand originated in 1948. The Coit Tower, Fire House and of course the infamous earth shattering “Earthquake” are all examples of the irresistible sundaes which remain as popular today as when they were first invented. With its passionate sundaes and continuation to drive to create new and exciting recipes that live up to the Swensen’s high standards, its indulgent sundaes are loaded with delicious toppings that any customers would find irresistible. Swensens select only the highest quality ingredients to ensure the delivery of the perfect sundaes every time.

On the expansion plans, Mr. Gaurav Marya, President, Franchise India, said, “Currently the total market size of branded Ice Cream including parlours is INR 800 crores. The growing young earning population, rising disposable incomes, change in taste and the spending capacity on leisure is leading to a surge in the Indian Ice Cream market. Compared to the other developed markets, there is still a huge gap to fill in this segment in India and famous international brands such as Swensens are keen to capitalize on this aspect especially on the restaurant format which is almost negligible in India. The ice cream market is growing at 10 to 12% year on year and is expected to expand further with the increase in number of malls and mushrooming retail sector, it assures high returns.”

About Franchise India International

Franchise India International is the international division of Franchise India Holdings Limited which enables international brands to enter India and develop successful partnerships with reliable Indian partners. To ensure success, FII conduct feasibility studies and strategic entry plans for a Pan-India rollout, advice on the most suitable mode for entry (franchising, licensing, and joint venture) and provide recommendations on how to adapt business models to suit Indian market conditions. Correspondingly, the division works closely with qualified Indian investors to identify business opportunities and forge long lasting partnerships with international brands.

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For further information, please contact:

Payal Gupta@98113 90248/ Email: gpayal@franchiseindia.net