Category: Restaurant News

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FHRAI vs. Q-Commerce: The David vs. Goliath Battle for the Food Industry

The food delivery industry in India is undergoing a significant transformation, with quick commerce (Q-commerce) emerging as a dominant force. Initially, food aggregators like Zomato and Swiggy acted as mere intermediaries between restaurants and customers. However, in recent years, they have expanded beyond their original function, introducing private-label brands and offering grocery and ready-to-eat meals alongside restaurant listings.

This shift has triggered concerns among small and mid-sized restaurant owners, who now find themselves in direct competition with the very platforms they rely on to reach customers. Are independent restaurants fighting a losing battle against billion-dollar corporations?

How Q-Commerce is Changing the Game

What is Q-Commerce?

Q-commerce refers to super-fast deliveries (10-30 minutes) of food, groceries, and essentials. It has revolutionized convenience for consumers but raised serious challenges for restaurants.

Major Issues Faced by Restaurants

1. Food aggregators are no longer just listing restaurants, they are competing with them.
~ Platforms like Zomato and Swiggy now promote their own private-label brands, directly competing with restaurants.

2. Private-label brands get priority placement.
~ These platforms control visibility, ensuring their own brands appear at the top of search results, pushing independent restaurants down.

3. Commission rates keep rising, squeezing restaurant profits.
~ Aggregators charge commissions as high as 15% to 30% per order, making profitability a challenge.

4. The supermarket analogy: The marketplace is rigged.
~ Imagine a small shop competing with a supermarket, but in this case, the supermarket also owns the shopping mall where everyone buys from. The game is unfair from the start.

FHRAI Steps in to Level the Playing Field

Zomato, Swiggy Put Cafe Wars In Overdrive

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is fighting against the growing monopoly of food aggregators. They have approached the Ministry of Commerce with key demands:

Transparency in ranking algorithms – Stop the unfair promotion of aggregator-owned brands.
Stricter e-commerce regulations – Clearly define the role of aggregators so they don’t become competitors.
Fair commission structures – Reduce excessive fees that make it hard for restaurants to sustain operations.
No preferential treatment for aggregator-owned brands – Ensure all restaurants have equal opportunities.

What This Means for Restaurant Owners

If left unchecked, Q-commerce could drive small and mid-sized restaurants out of business. However, restaurant owners still have ways to fight back:

Strategies to Survive the Q-Commerce Takeover

Diversify Sales Channels – Reduce reliance on aggregators by setting up direct ordering via websites, WhatsApp, and social media.
Leverage Smart POS Systems – A Point-of-Sale (POS) system like Billberry helps track sales, manage customers, and streamline operations.
Strengthen Customer Loyalty – Offer discounts for direct orders to retain customers.
Partner with Local Delivery Services – Collaborate with local delivery partners instead of relying solely on food aggregators.

Who Will Win This Battle? 

The fight between restaurant owners (David) and food aggregators (Goliath) is ongoing, and the outcome will shape the future of the food industry in India. With FHRAI pushing for stricter regulations, independent restaurant owners are hopeful that a level playing field can be established. 

However, unless proper regulatory measures are introduced, Q-commerce giants could further monopolize the food industry, making it harder for independent businesses to survive. 

~ What do you think? Should Q-commerce platforms be strictly regulated? 

Visit www.billberrypos.com to learn how a smart POS Software. can help restaurants stay competitive in the evolving food industry. Book a Free Demo, to learn more about Restaurant POS Software. 

Source: Economic Times – FHRAI vs. Q-Commerce

Top 10 Fastest Growing QSR Chains in India 2025: Smart POS for Faster Expansion

Ravi, a young entrepreneur from Pune, had always dreamed of running a successful food business. Inspired by the rise of Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) across India, he wanted to invest in a franchise that promised rapid growth and high returns. However, during his research, he noticed something interesting, the fastest-growing QSRs weren’t just about great food; they were powered by technology.

From bustling city streets to small-town food courts, Smart POS (Point-of-Sale) systems were revolutionizing the industry. These digital solutions weren’t just replacing traditional cash registers; they were speeding up operations, managing inventory in real-time, reducing billing errors, and improving customer experiences. It was no longer just about serving food, it was about serving it faster, smarter, and better.

As Ravi dived deeper, he uncovered a trend that the most successful QSR chains in India were leveraging Smart POS systems to scale rapidly. They weren’t just growing; they were setting new industry benchmarks.

Here’s a look at 10 of the fastest growing QSR chains in India that are riding the wave of technology-driven expansion.

1. Burger Singh: Indian Flavors with Technological Flair

burger singh

Established in 2014, Burger Singh has rapidly expanded to over 175 outlets across 75 cities in India, along with international presence in the UK. The brand’s unique fusion of Indian spices with Western-style burgers has resonated with consumers, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. To manage its extensive operations efficiently, Burger Singh employs advanced POS systems that facilitate seamless order processing, inventory management, and data analytics. These systems enable real-time tracking of sales and stock levels, allowing for swift decision-making and reduced operational costs. The brand’s efficient operations and low-cost setup model make it an attractive franchise opportunity.

2. Wow! Momo: Innovating Traditional Delicacies

Wow Momo Logo

Founded in 2008, Wow! Momo has grown to over 650 outlets across 40 cities in India. The brand’s inventive approach to traditional momos, coupled with a multi-brand strategy that includes Wow! China and Wow! Chicken, has diversified its offerings. To support its rapid expansion and diverse menu, Wow! Momo utilizes integrated POS solutions that manage orders from multiple brands within a single system. This integration ensures efficient kitchen operations, accurate order fulfillment, and enhanced customer satisfaction. The company’s revenue from operations surged 87.7% to ₹413 crore in FY23, highlighting its strong growth trajectory.

3. Chai Point: Modernizing India’s Tea Culture

chai point franchise

Since its inception in 2010, Chai Point has established approximately 200 outlets, primarily in urban centers. Capitalizing on India’s deep-rooted tea culture, Chai Point offers premium, freshly brewed chai and snacks. The brand’s innovative use of IoT-enabled dispensers and cloud-based POS systems allows for precise monitoring of sales, inventory, and customer preferences. This technological integration ensures consistent quality and quick service, catering to the fast-paced lifestyle of urban consumers. Chai Point maintained its trajectory with scale surpassing ₹200 crore in FY23, reinforcing its position in the competitive QSR market.

4. Biryani By Kilo: Tradition Meets Technology

biryani by kilo

Established in 2015, Biryani By Kilo operates over 150 outlets in India, specializing in freshly cooked biryani prepared in individual clay pots. To maintain the authenticity and quality of its offerings, the brand employs smart POS systems that integrate order processing with kitchen operations. These systems enable real-time tracking of cooking times and delivery logistics, ensuring that customers receive hot and fresh meals. The brand’s focus on authenticity and quality has contributed to its strong market presence and profitability.

5. Chai Sutta Bar: Blending Tradition with Modernity

 Chai Sutta Bar

Founded in 2016, Chai Sutta Bar has rapidly expanded to over 250 outlets across India and internationally. The brand offers a unique twist on traditional tea cafes, serving high-quality, affordable chai in clay cups (suttas), creating a nostalgic yet modern experience. To manage its widespread operations, Chai Sutta Bar utilizes smart POS systems that streamline transactions, monitor sales trends, and manage inventory efficiently. This technological integration supports the brand’s rapid expansion and ensures consistent service quality. The brand’s widespread appeal, combined with high footfall and strong social media presence, ensures solid returns for franchisees.

6. Ajay’s Cafe: Affordable Delights with Efficient Operations

Ajay's Takeaway Food

Ajay’s Cafe is one of the fastest growing QSR chains in India, serving burgers, cold coffees, and other delectable snacks at over 178 outlets across 44 cities. The brand offers robust support to its franchisees, from site selection assistance to a comprehensive startup kit. To streamline operations, Ajay’s Cafe provides a robust POS system that allows franchisees to order raw materials online, ranging from buns, patties, ketchup, cold coffee ingredients, and other condiments manufactured at the brand’s own manufacturing plant. This integration ensures operational efficiency and consistency across all outlets.

7. KFC India: Global Brand with Local Adaptation

KFC LOGO INDIA

Devyani International, the operator of KFC and Pizza Hut in India, has reported significant growth due to the addition of hundreds of new stores. Despite a general consumption slowdown, Devyani’s revenue rose by 49% to ₹12.22 billion, slightly exceeding expectations. The company expanded its portfolio by signing franchising deals with Tealive, New York Fries, and Sanook Kitchen. To manage its extensive operations, Devyani International utilizes advanced POS systems that integrate various aspects of the business, from order processing to inventory management, ensuring efficient operations and consistent customer experiences.

8. Domino’s India: Delivering Excellence through Technology

domino's pizza

Jubilant FoodWorks, the operator of Domino’s Pizza in India, has been focusing on expanding its store count and introducing more affordable menu items to cater to budget-conscious consumers. The company’s net profit dropped to ₹640.5 million for the quarter ending September 30, down from ₹972 million the previous year, yet still above analyst estimates. With inflation prompting budget-conscious spending, Domino’s introduced cheaper options like a four-course meal for ₹99 and expanded its store count, leading to a nearly 43% increase in revenue from operations to ₹19.55 billion.

9. One Bite: Customizable Fast Food Experience

One bite QSR

One Bite is a rapidly expanding fast-food franchise in India, renowned for its diverse and customizable menu offerings, including pizzas, burgers, pastas, wraps, and beverages. With over 300 franchise outlets, One Bite’s efficient franchise model is supported by low investment costs and high brand recognition. The integration of smart POS systems enables seamless order customization, efficient inventory management, and real-time sales tracking, contributing to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

10. Kouzina: Revolutionizing Vegetarian Fast Food

kouzina food tech

Kouzina is making significant strides in India’s fastest growing QSR chains sector with its unique vegetarian menu. Focusing on healthy, quick, and affordable options, Kouzina offers an innovative approach to fast food, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The franchise’s cloud kitchen model, supported by smart POS systems, allows for efficient order processing, inventory management, and data analytics, facilitating scalability and consistent service quality. With a low investment requirement and a no-royalty fee model, Kouzina presents an attractive opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Tips for QSR Owners

If you’re like Ravi and want to build a scalable, successful QSR business, here are some key tips to make the most of Smart POS technology:

🔹 Choose a Cloud-Based POS – A cloud system ensures you can manage orders, track sales, and monitor inventory anytime, anywhere without being tied to a physical location.

🔹 Integrate with Online Ordering & Delivery Apps – Ensure your POS system syncs with Swiggy, Zomato, and other food aggregators to streamline online orders without manual effort.

🔹 Automate Inventory Management – Smart POS tracks stock levels in real-time, alerts you before ingredients run out, and prevents overstocking or wastage.

🔹 Optimize Your Menu with Sales Data – Use POS analytics to see which items are selling best and adjust pricing, combos, or promotions to maximize revenue.

🔹 Speed Up Service with Digital Payments – Accepting UPI, mobile wallets, and contactless payments reduces wait times and improves customer experience.

🔹 Implement Customer Loyalty Programs – A smart POS can track repeat customers and offer personalized discounts or rewards to increase retention.

🔹 Train Your Staff on POS Usage – A high-tech system is only useful if your team knows how to use it efficiently. Conduct regular training to ensure smooth operations.

By following these tech-driven strategies, you’re not just running a QSR, you’re building a brand that’s ready to scale, expand, and dominate the market.

Investing into the right Franchise Management Solution like BillBerry POS is equally important.

Embracing Technology: Ravi’s Key to Success

As Ravi continued his research, he realized that great food alone wasn’t enough to build a thriving QSR business. The secret ingredient behind the success of India’s fastest growing QSR chains wasn’t just their menu, it was their ability to operate smarter, faster, and more efficiently.

He imagined the challenges of running a busy outlet: long queues, delayed orders, inventory mismanagement, payment errors. But the franchises that were scaling rapidly had one thing in common, they had eliminated these problems with Smart POS technology.

This was Ravi’s turning point. If he wanted to compete with the big players and scale quickly, he needed a technology-first approach. A robust POS system wouldn’t just speed up billing, it would track sales, prevent stock shortages, optimize pricing, and even offer customer insights to personalize promotions.

With newfound clarity, Ravi made his decision. He would choose a QSR franchise that leveraged Smart POS technology, ensuring he wasn’t just opening a food outlet, he was building a future-ready, scalable business.

And just like that, his entrepreneurial journey was no longer just a dream. It was a well-planned roadmap to success, powered by technology and innovation.

Looking for a budget-friendly POS system for your bakery? Try Billberry POS – a cost-effective bakery management solution with all the essential features you need.

Schedule a DEMO with BillBerry!

Top-Selling Bakery Items on Swiggy & Zomato

With food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato revolutionizing the culinary landscape, understanding customer preferences is crucial for bakery owners aiming to optimize their offerings. This article delves into the most ordered bakery items on Swiggy and Zomato, providing actionable insights backed by data. 

1. Cakes – The Evergreen Delight

Bakery items on swiggy and zomato

Cakes consistently top the list of bakery items ordered online, catering to celebrations and personal indulgences alike.

Cakes remain a cornerstone of celebratory occasions in India. On New Year’s Eve 2025, Swiggy delivered an impressive 296,711 cake orders, underscoring their popularity during festive times (Source: The New Indian Express). Notably, specific varieties like choco lava cake and chocolate truffle cake have seen substantial orders, with 3.6 million and 2.27 million orders respectively in recent years (Source: NDTV Profit).

Most Popular Cakes:

~ Chocolate Truffle Cake: A rich, decadent favorite among dessert enthusiasts.

~ Choco Lava Cake: In 2024, this molten delight was ordered approximately 3.6 million times on Swiggy.

~ Red Velvet Cake: Known for its vibrant hue and unique flavor profile.

~ Black Forest Cake: A classic choice, blending chocolate with cherries and cream.

~ Fruit Cake: Gaining popularity due to a growing preference for fruit-based desserts.

Strategies to Enhance Cake Sales:

1. Prompt Delivery Services: Offering same-day and midnight delivery can cater to spontaneous celebrations.

2. Customization Options: Personalized cakes for events can attract a broader clientele.

3. Collaborative Promotions: Partner with Swiggy and Zomato to provide exclusive discounts for bulk orders.

2. Pastries – Single-Serve Pleasures

Bakery items on swiggy and zomato

Pastries offer a convenient and affordable indulgence, making them a popular choice for individual servings.

Top Pastry Choices:

~ Chocolate Pastry: A miniature version of the beloved chocolate cake.

~ Butterscotch Pastry: Praised for its creamy texture and caramelized flavor.

~ Red Velvet Pastry: Aesthetic appeal combined with a distinct taste.

~ Pineapple Pastry: A tropical twist that’s both light and refreshing.

~ Tiramisu: An Italian classic that’s seeing increased orders.

Boosting Pastry Sales:

1. Assorted Packs: Offer variety boxes to encourage sampling.

2. Diet-Friendly Options: Introduce vegan and eggless variants to cater to diverse dietary preferences.

3. Attractive Packaging: Enhance presentation to make pastries suitable for gifting.

3. Donuts – The Trendy Treat

Bakery items on swiggy and zomato

Donuts have seen a surge in popularity, appealing to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates.

Best-Selling Donuts:

~ Chocolate Glazed Donut: A timeless choice for chocolate lovers.

~ Classic Sugar Donut: Simplicity that never goes out of style.

~ Boston Cream Donut: Filled with custard and topped with chocolate, it’s a rich delight.

~ Strawberry Frosted Donut: A fruity option that’s both colorful and flavorful.

~ Assorted Donut Boxes: Perfect for group settings or indecisive customers.

Enhancing Donut Appeal:

1. Value Packs: Offer donuts in bundles (e.g., packs of 6 or 12) with competitive pricing.

2. Innovative Flavors: Experiment with trending ingredients like matcha or caramel.

3. Promotional Deals: Implement “Buy One Get One” offers during off-peak hours to boost sales.

4. Brownies – The Fudgy Favorite

Most ordered bakery items on Swiggy and Zomato

Brownies are cherished for their rich texture and versatility, making them a staple dessert choice.

Popular Brownie Variants:

~ Classic Chocolate Brownie: Dense, moist, and irresistibly chocolaty.

~ Walnut Brownie: Adds a crunchy dimension to the traditional brownie.

~ Oreo Brownie: A fusion dessert combining two favorites.

~ Red Velvet Brownie: A colorful twist that’s gaining traction.

~ Brownie with Ice Cream: A popular combo that elevates the dessert experience.

Strategies for Brownie Sales:

1. Family-Sized Portions: Offer larger packs for gatherings.

2. Health-Conscious Options: Introduce sugar-free or gluten-free brownies.

3. Collaborative Combos: Partner with beverage brands to create dessert and drink bundles.

5. Savory Bakes – Quick and Satisfying

Bakery POS

Savory items cater to those seeking a quick, hearty snack, especially during breakfast or tea times.

In-Demand Savory Items:

~ Butter Croissant: Flaky and buttery, perfect for mornings.

~ Veg Puffs: A spiced vegetable filling encased in puff pastry, popular across regions.

~ Paneer Puffs: A vegetarian delight with a rich paneer filling.

~ Cheese Straws: Crispy and cheesy, ideal for light snacking.

Boosting Savory Sales:

1. Meal Combos: Pair savory items with beverages at a discounted rate.

2. Healthier Alternatives: Offer whole-grain or baked versions for the health-conscious.

3. Corporate Tie-Ins: Provide bulk order deals for office meetings and events.

Also Read: Affordable POS Softwares for Small Bakeries in India

Bakery Shop Bill Format

How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Bakery

Additional Insights for Bakery Owners

Trending Bakery Beverages on Swiggy & Zomato

~ Cold Coffee & Mocha – A top choice for dessert lovers.

~ Hot Chocolate – A winter favorite that pairs well with brownies.

~ Bubble Tea – Trending among Gen Z and millennials.

~ Milkshakes – Chocolate, Oreo, and KitKat shakes are highly ordered.

~ Fresh Juices & Smoothies – Health-conscious customers are driving demand.

💡 Tip: Bundle beverages with best-selling baked goods for higher sales.

How Discounts & Offers Influence Bakery Sales

~ BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) – Great for donuts, pastries, and brownies.

~ Festival Discounts – High demand during Diwali, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day.

~ Bulk Order Deals – Group discounts for party orders.

~ Free Delivery Above ₹299 – Encourages higher order values.

How Billberry POS Helps Bakery Owners Thrive

Managing online orders efficiently is crucial for bakery businesses. Billberry POS simplifies operations by:

1. Centralizing Orders: Sync Swiggy, Zomato, and in-store orders in one dashboard.

2. Real-Time Inventory Management: Avoid stock-outs by tracking ingredients live.

3. Automated Promotions: Set up discounts and offers directly from the POS system.

4. Quick Billing & Reports: Analyze daily sales and best-selling products effortlessly.

Contact BillBerry POS Today for more information.

Final Thoughts: Leveraging Online Trends for Bakery Success

~ Experiment with trending bakery items to stay relevant.

~ Analyze sales data from Swiggy/Zomato to identify top-selling products.

~ Offer personalized and festive-themed bakery items.

~ Optimize delivery speed and packaging to enhance customer experience

 

💡 Want to streamline your bakery business? Get a free Billberry POS demo!

Experience the Grandeur of Khadhya Khurak 2024

Are you ready to explore the future of the food industry? Khadhya Khurak 2024 is here to bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts from the food and beverage sector. Mark your calendars and prepare to witness one of the most prestigious exhibitions in India, where tradition meets innovation. 

What is Khadhya Khurak? 

Khadhya Khurak is an iconic platform that has been a cornerstone of the food and beverage industry since its inception in 2000. What started as a magazine aimed at educating and connecting food industry stakeholders has evolved into one of Asia’s largest food exhibitions. Over the years, Khadhya Khurak has played a pivotal role in showcasing advancements in food technology, packaging, and processing while bridging the gap between manufacturers, distributors, and consumers. 

The event attracts participants from various sectors, including bakery, dairy, snacks, beverages, machinery, hospitality, and retail. It is not just an exhibition but a movement to uplift the standards of the food industry, promoting innovation and collaboration on a global scale. 

Event Overview: 

  • Event Name: Khadhya Khurak 2024 
  • Date: December 19th to December 22nd, 2024 
  • Venue: Helipad Ground, GH4, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 

This exhibition serves as the perfect platform for businesses to showcase their products, build connections, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving food industry. 

What to Expect at Khadhya Khurak Exhibition 2024: 

  1. Networking Opportunities: Meet key players, industry leaders, and innovators. 
  1. Latest Trends and Innovations: Get insights into cutting-edge technology and advancements in food production and processing. 
  1. Diverse Exhibitors: Discover a wide range of products, including food, beverages, machinery, packaging solutions, and more. 
  1. Knowledge Sharing: Attend seminars and workshops conducted by experts to gain valuable knowledge about the industry’s future.

    Khadhya Khurak Food Exhibition 2022 | Billberry

Billberry POS at Khadhya Khurak 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Billberry POS, your trusted partner in food business management, will also be part of this grand event! Visit us in Hall No. 09, Stall No. 134 & 135 to explore how our innovative POS solutions can streamline your food business operations. 

Billberry POS is designed to cater to the unique needs of food and beverage businesses, from single outlets to franchises. Learn more about us at www.billberrypos.com. 

How to Register for Free Entry 

Entry to the Khadhya Khurak Exhibition 2024 Registration is free! Follow these steps to secure your spot: 

  1. Visit the official registration page. 
  1. Fill out the registration form with accurate details. 
  1. After submitting, check your email for a confirmation message. 
  1. Bring a soft or hard copy of the confirmation email and valid identity proof to the venue. 
  1. Present the form at the registration counter to gain entry. 

Important Note:Each form is valid for one person only. Children under 14 years are not allowed, and entry is subject to the organizers’ terms and conditions. 

Terms and Conditions: 

  • Ensure to carry your confirmation email and identity proof. 
  • Rights of admission are reserved by the organizers. 
  • The event is subject to force majeure conditions. 
  • Organizers may alter the terms and conditions without prior notice.

    image

Why You Should Attend Khadhya Khurak 2024: 

Since its inception, Khadhya Khurak has been a beacon for the food and beverage industry, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and learning. Whether you’re an established business owner or a budding entrepreneur, this exhibition provides the tools and connections you need to succeed. 

Final Thoughts: 

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this grand event that promises to redefine the food and beverage landscape. Join thousands of attendees at the Khadhya Khurak Exhibition 2024, network with industry stalwarts, and explore the future of food innovation. 

Visit Billberry POS at Hall No. 09, Stall No. 134 & 135, and Register Today! 

India’s Food Service Market to Outgrow Japan by 2028!

“Imagine walking into your favorite café or ordering from a cloud kitchen, knowing that you’re part of a massive transformation in India’s food service industry. What seems like a simple act of grabbing a bite is actually fueling one of the fastest-growing markets in the world! By 2028, India’s food service market is expected to surpass Japan, trailing only behind the US and China.”

India’s f&b market is set to outgrow Japan in terms of market size by 2028.
Specifically, India’s food service industry will surpass Japan to become the third-largest food service market globally, behind only the US and China. This growth is measured by the overall market value, which is projected to reach ₹7.76 trillion by 2028.

In contrast, Japan’s food service industry will be smaller than India’s in terms of revenue, despite Japan being a more developed market. Additionally, India is expected to be the second-fastest growing food service market globally, trailing only Brazil, further emphasizing its rapid expansion compared to Japan.

But how did we get here, and what does this explosive growth mean for the future?

The Beginning of a Culinary Boom

It wasn’t too long ago that eating out was an occasional treat for most Indians. But fast forward to today, and the landscape has changed dramatically. According to a report by the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the food services market, currently valued at ₹5.7 trillion, is projected to skyrocket to ₹7.76 trillion by 2028. This represents a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1%, with the organized sector growing even faster at a CAGR of 13.2%.

What’s driving this growth?

The answer lies in the habits of the modern Indian consumer. Whether it’s the joy of dining out with friends, the convenience of ordering in, or the trend of trying new cuisines, Indians are eating out more frequently than ever before. Today, the average Indian dines out or orders in 7.9 times per month, compared to 6.6 times in 2019. And this number is only set to grow.

A Market Set to Surpass Giants

By 2028, India’s f&b market will surpass Japan, becoming the third-largest in the world, right behind the US and China. Even more impressively, it’s predicted to be the second-fastest-growing market globally, trailing only Brazil.

What’s fueling this boom?

It’s not just the increase in dining frequency but a broader shift in urban lifestyles. Rising incomes, urbanization, and changing eating habits are creating a perfect storm for growth. Whether it’s the busy professional grabbing a quick meal between meetings or families bonding over weekend dinners, India’s love for food is now driving the economy in unexpected ways.

But it’s not just the volume of meals being served; it’s the transformation within the market itself. The organized food service sector—which includes chain restaurants, cafes, and cloud kitchens—is expected to grow to 52.8% of the total market by 2028. This marks a sharp rise from the current 43.8%, while the unorganized segment, dominated by small, independent outlets, will shrink to 47.2% from 56.2%.

Cafes, Cloud Kitchens, and a New Era of Dining

One of the most exciting aspects of this growth is the rise of niche food segments. The NRAI report highlights that cafes, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), dessert parlors, and ice cream shops will be among the fastest-growing sectors. Cafes are expected to grow at an 18.6% CAGR, QSRs at 17.5%, and dessert/ice cream shops at 15%. These spaces are becoming more than just places to eat—they’re community hubs where people meet, work, and socialize.

And then there’s the rise of cloud kitchens. With more people ordering in than ever, these delivery-only operations are taking the food industry by storm, projected to grow at an astonishing CAGR of 35.2% by 2028. Cloud kitchens are revolutionizing the way we think about food service, providing a low-overhead, high-efficiency model that meets the needs of today’s fast-paced world.

Challenges on the Horizon

Of course, no growth comes without its challenges. Rising input costs, regulatory hurdles, and limited hours of operation have food service operators on their toes. Delivery dynamics, in particular, present a complex problem. As online ordering grows, restaurants and cloud kitchens alike are grappling with how to balance food quality with delivery logistics.

Industry leaders have started pushing for solutions to ease these challenges. They are calling for industry status to be granted to the food services sector, the creation of a separate food services ministry, the implementation of “One Nation, One Norm” regulations, and the allowance for longer operating hours to meet the increasing demand.

The Road Ahead: Bigger, Better, and More Delicious

As India’s food service market continues its incredible growth, the journey ahead looks bigger, better, and more delicious than ever. This boom isn’t just a matter of statistics; it represents a cultural shift in how we eat, work, and connect with others. Whether you’re a consumer enjoying more dining options or an entrepreneur looking for opportunities in this thriving industry, the road ahead holds immense potential.

Beyond the Numbers, the impact is deeply personal. This market surge means more choices, better quality, and greater convenience for every Indian consumer. And it’s not just about business growth—it’s about creating a dining experience that’s as accessible in a small town as it is in a big city. The millions of jobs created will shape lives and contribute to the economy in profound ways, affecting how we live, work, and interact with food every day.

A Taste of Tomorrow

In a world where dining habits are rapidly evolving, India’s food service market is set to lead the way. With growth rates outpacing many of the world’s largest economies, this is more than just a business story—it’s a cultural revolution.

So the next time you sit down to order from your favorite cloud kitchen or visit your local café, know that you’re part of a much bigger story. The future of India’s food service industry is being written one meal at a time—and it’s a story that’s only going to get more delicious.

Data Source: National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Report
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