McDonald’s To Invest Rs. 700 Crore Into Its Food Business In India

McDonald’s, one of the leading fast food chains in India, is planning to invest nearly Rs. 700 to Rs. 750 crore in expanding its food business in India. The world renowned fast food chain said it plans to expand its outlets in emerging metros and towns in the country, according to a company official speaking to Economic Times. 

Brand Presence

The fast food chain, which entered the Indian market in 1996, currently has nearly 236 outlets across West and South India regions through Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Westlife Development Ltd. McDonald’s expects to further expand its presence in tier II and III cities and recently opened its first outlet in Nellore. Speaking at the launch, Gerald Dias, Director of McDonald’s India Business Operations in the South, said, “We are excited to introduce the Golden Arches with our first restaurant in Nellore. At McDonald’s we endeavor to delight our customers with a variety of range wholesome offerings in lunch and dinner. Our efficient model of supply chain sources 98% of ingredients locally. Quality, service, cleanliness and value form the unique value proposition which reflects in our food and hospitality.”

Vegetarian Menu

McDonald’s also has plans to revamp its menu by introducing more vegetarian options for the large population of vegetarians in the country. India was one of the first markets where the fast food chain introduced vegetarian items as part of the menu. The vegetarian menu, including the famous McTikki, has found an enormous following in countries beyond India as well, including Singapore and the Middle East. Speaking about the vegetarian options on the menu, Ranjith Paliat, Vice President, Business Operation, McDonald’s India (West and South), said, “It was tried out in Singapore and it was tried out in the Middle East. The products taken there were aloo-tikki and McVeggie. So with growing vegetarianism, there is an interest in what we are serving and how can they take it.” 

New Items On The Menu

The new items on the menu will be determined based on customer feedback and Paliat noted that McDonald’s will be introducing a few items which could provide a stiff competition to the McTikki. The fast food chain will be introducing McSamosa or McDosa based on the feedback from customers in the near future. McDonald’s extensive vegetarian menu provides an alternative to the usual fast food chains which predominantly serves non-vegetarian items on the menu.