US restaurtant chain Quiznos expands into India

WASHINGTON - US restaurant chain Quiznos plans to expand into India with five Quiznos outlets in southern Indian cities by the end of the year, the first of which is set open in May 2011.

The privately held Denver-based company said Friday it has awarded master franchising rights for southern India, including Bangalore, Kochi, Chennai and Hyderabad, to Arjun Valluri. An experienced and successful franchisee who has brought a variety of restaurant concepts to southern India, Valluri plans to open at least 40 Quiznos locations in India at an accelerated pace, said the chain, which has thousands of restaurants in the US.

With 15 Xtreme Sports Bar locations and 3 Caffe Latte concepts, Valluri brings business savvy and understanding of the local market to the partnership with Quiznos, it said. Store menus in India will feature Quiznos’ signature toasted sandwiches and flatbread Sammies, as well as the chef-inspired salads, sides and desserts for which Quiznos is known.

The menu will also feature some local customisation, including new custom sauces and dressings reflecting the flavours of traditional Indian cuisine, Indian grains incorporated into the bread and a broader variety of vegetarian selections.

The locations in India will also offer coffee and yogurt to round out the menu and provide a complete dining experience typical of local customer preferences.

“There is a strong customer preference toward hot food in India, and Quiznos toasted sandwiches and unmatched quality made the brand a clear and compelling fit for this market,” said Valluri.

“Quiznos is a well-known and respected brand and we have already received phenomenal response from individuals who want to own a Quiznos location in India.

“This speaks to the strength and success of the brand, and I am excited to help establish the foundation and continuation for Quiznos success in India,” he said.

“At Quiznos, we are well-positioned for tremendous international expansion. With shifting demographics, a young upcoming population and a growing affinity toward international brands among Indian consumers, our entrance into India represents an especially exciting opportunity for investment and growth,” said Lee Vala, International Chief Development Officer, Quiznos.

“Valluri is an exceptional partner whose experience and expertise in the local market, combined with Quiznos unparalleled strategy for international growth and localization, will fuel Quiznos success in this rapidly emerging economy.”

Over the next few years, Quiznos said it plans to grow the brand’s international footprint to more than 40 countries and territories, with target markets in Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

(Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in)