Sweet path to Success

In a candid conversation with Food Service India magazine, CEO Anuvrat Pabrai and partners Kunal Pabrai & Nishant Pabrai of Pabrai’s Fresh & Naturelle Ice Creams express their views on how the east India market is responding to the positive strides, and how young foodpreneurs are cashing in on the opportunities by innovation and right strategies.

Sweet path to success Which are the positive upsides to the foodservice market of East India? In your assessment, how has it evolved over the years in terms of growth and business opportunities?

Anuvrat Pabrai: The east India market has been a late starter in terms of the food service industry, despite the huge demand. I feel that the market has stupendous potential waiting to be addressed. Infact, there is ample scope for food entrepreneurs to cash in on the opportunity.

Therefore, it is not surprising that multiple start- ups have blossomed in the city trying to carve out a niche for themselves. Some of them like Wow Momos & Pabrai’s Fresh & Naturelle Ice creams have expanded their reach across the nation; while others like Chai Break & Paris Café continue to draw an increasing army of fans by constantly innovating their products.

What is the sphere and scope of your foodservice operations and activities in East India? Which specific sector/segment of the foodservice market you cater to?

Kunal Pabrai: At present there are 11 Pabrai’s retail units in both standalone parlours and kiosk formats with eight in Kolkata , two in Siliguri and one in Bhubaneswar.

In each of the cities, in addition to addressing the retail demand for premium ice creams, we also address the demand curve of top hotels, restaurants and caterers.

Which food retail formats do you occupy? How organised is this format of business and how much of this business format is in the organised market? Which are the factors that will encourage more players to embrace the organised market?