Curefoods Buys Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme, a thrilling milestone in its growth journey. This article explores Curefoods’ bold acquisition of Krispy Kreme’s India operations from the Landmark Group, diving into how this strengthens its food-tech dominance. We’ll unpack the deal’s specifics, Curefoods’ ambitious plans to scale Krispy Kreme to over 350 outlets, and what this means for doughnut lovers across India. With insights into the competitive foodservice market, Startup INIDAX highlights why this acquisition is a game-changer for both Curefoods and consumers.
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A Thrilling Move for Curefoods
Picture yourself biting into a warm Krispy Kreme doughnut, the glaze melting in your mouth, and knowing that this iconic brand is now powered by one of India’s most dynamic food-tech startups. Curefoods Buys Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme, and it’s a move that’s electrifying the food industry. Announced on December 31, 2024, this acquisition from the Landmark Group is a bold leap for Curefoods, a Bengaluru-based startup already dominating with over 500 cloud kitchens and offline stores. At Startup INIDAX, we’re buzzing with excitement to break down this deal, which promises to spread Krispy Kreme’s magic across India while cementing Curefoods’ place in the foodservice spotlight.
This isn’t just about doughnuts—it’s about Curefoods’ relentless drive to conquer India’s food market. With brands like EatFit, Nomad Pizza, and Sharief Bhai Biryani in its arsenal, Curefoods is a force to be reckoned with. By securing Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme, it’s diving headfirst into the premium quick-service restaurant (QSR) space with a global icon. Let’s dig into the details and uncover why this acquisition is pure genius.
What’s Behind the Deal?
Curefoods Buys Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme in a deal that’s as strategic as it is exciting. Initially focused on South and West India, the acquisition from the Landmark Group covers Krispy Kreme’s nearly 50 outlets in cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Finalized in late 2024, the agreement blends cash and equity, with Landmark Hospitality Services Limited taking a stake in Curefoods India—a sign of a powerful partnership.
What sets this deal apart is Curefoods’ multi-year franchise agreement with Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, allowing it to open over 350 new outlets across India in the next five years. That’s a massive jump from the current 50 touchpoints, showcasing Curefoods’ confidence in Krispy Kreme’s appeal. Ankit Nagori, Curefoods’ founder, shared with Moneycontrol that talks are underway to expand into North and East India, making this a true pan-India triumph.
At Startup INIDAX, we see this as a brilliant play in India’s booming food-tech scene. Curefoods isn’t just acquiring a brand; it’s embracing a legacy that’s been winning hearts since 1937. So, why Krispy Kreme, and why is this the perfect moment?
Why Krispy Kreme Shines
Krispy Kreme isn’t just a doughnut shop—it’s a global sensation. Known for its Original Glazed doughnuts and the famous “Hot Light” signaling fresh batches, Krispy Kreme boasts over 15,500 access points in 40 countries. Since landing in India in 2013, it’s built a loyal following with its melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts, premium coffee, and welcoming vibe.
For Curefoods, Krispy Kreme is a dazzling addition to its portfolio. Unlike its cloud kitchen-focused brands like EatFit, Krispy Kreme brings international prestige and a devoted fanbase. Ankit Nagori told ETRetail, “Franchising a global brand like Krispy Kreme eases product development pressure, with a proven global machinery backing brand growth.” This means Curefoods can focus on scaling rather than reinventing the wheel.
Plus, Krispy Kreme’s prime store locations in cities like Bengaluru and Chennai are a treasure trove. A source told YourStory, “Krispy Kreme’s spots are in high-demand areas, tough to secure at today’s prices.” Curefoods can capitalize on these while weaving Krispy Kreme into its 300+ cloud kitchen network and boosting its presence on Swiggy and Zomato.
Curefoods’ Ambitious Krispy Kreme Vision
Now that Curefoods Buys Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme, what’s the plan? The startup is charging forward with a vision to make Krispy Kreme a household name. By the end of 2025, Curefoods aims to launch 25 new brick-and-mortar stores and integrate Krispy Kreme into its cloud kitchen network. This omnichannel strategy—blending offline and online channels—is Curefoods’ secret sauce.
Ankit Nagori predicts Krispy Kreme could hit a Rs 100 crore revenue run-rate in 2025, a bold goal for a brand already profitable under Landmark’s management. Curefoods’ roadmap includes:
- Offline Expansion: 25 new stores in 2025, with a five-year target of 350+ outlets.
- Online Growth: Adding Krispy Kreme to cloud kitchens and amplifying its reach on food delivery platforms.
- Nationwide Reach: Securing rights for North and East India to create a truly pan-India presence.
This aligns with Curefoods’ mission to build a “house of brands.” With EatFit, CakeZone, and Nomad Pizza already in its portfolio, Krispy Kreme adds a premium QSR edge. Startup INIDAX believes this positions Curefoods as a heavyweight in India’s food-tech arena, rivaling players like Rebel Foods and Wow! Momo.
Why Curefoods Wins Big
Securing Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme is a stunning victory for Curefoods. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
- Portfolio Power-Up: Krispy Kreme diversifies Curefoods’ offerings with a premium dessert and coffee brand, complementing CakeZone and tapping into India’s dessert craze.
- Global Credibility: Krispy Kreme’s iconic status gives Curefoods instant brand power, drawing in new customers effortlessly.
- Operational Magic: Integrating Krispy Kreme into its cloud kitchens streamlines costs and supercharges delivery efficiency.
- Investor Buzz: The deal, paired with Landmark’s stake, boosts market confidence. Curefoods’ $40 million Series D round, backed by Binny Bansal and Chiratae Ventures, proves its momentum.
Curefoods’ financials are equally impressive. In FY24, it clocked Rs 585 crore in revenue, up 53% year-on-year. With Krispy Kreme, Curefoods is on track for a Rs 1,000 crore revenue run-rate by FY25, per media reports.
What Consumers Gain
For doughnut fans, Curefoods Buys Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme is a delicious win. Here’s what’s in store:
- More Locations: With 350+ outlets planned, Krispy Kreme will pop up in metros and tier-2 cities alike.
- Seamless Online Orders: Curefoods’ cloud kitchen expertise means Krispy Kreme will be just a Swiggy or Zomato tap away.
- Fresh Flavors: While the core menu stays, Curefoods might roll out localized treats, building on its success with Nomad Pizza.
- Top-Notch Quality: Curefoods’ tech-driven operations ensure every doughnut delivers that signature Krispy Kreme joy.
Startup INIDAX is thrilled about how this deal caters to India’s urban, dessert-loving crowd. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Mumbai or grabbing a doughnut in Pune, Curefoods is making indulgence easier.
Startup INIDAX’s Perspective
At Startup INIDAX, we’re all about celebrating India’s startup stars, and Curefoods’ acquisition of Krispy Kreme’s Pan-India Rights is a shining moment. This isn’t just a business deal—it’s a homegrown startup taking on a global titan and reshaping India’s food-tech landscape. Curefoods’ blend of tech, efficiency, and consumer focus is a model for startups everywhere.
We’re especially impressed by Curefoods’ omnichannel approach, capitalizing on both dine-in and delivery trends post-pandemic. This acquisition proves Indian startups can go toe-to-toe with global brands while keeping local tastes in mind.
The Exciting Future
Curefoods Buys Pan-India Rights for Krispy Kreme, but this is just the start. With a $300-400 million IPO planned for FY26, Curefoods is eyeing a spot alongside Zomato and Swiggy in India’s startup elite. Krispy Kreme is a cornerstone of this ambition, showcasing Curefoods’ knack for scaling premium brands.
For Krispy Kreme, this deal ensures its legacy thrives in India, reaching new cities and customers under Curefoods’ dynamic leadership. For consumers, it’s a promise of more doughnuts, coffee, and happiness.
Startup INIDAX will keep a close eye on Curefoods’ next steps. Can it make Krispy Kreme a pan-India sensation? We’re betting on yes, and this dazzling deal is just the beginning.
