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German Doner Kebab (GDK) has made its India debut with the opening of its first outlet at Film Nagar, Tollywood Lane, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad. The launch marks the beginning of the premium QSR brand’s planned expansion across the country.
GBC India, GDK’s master franchise partner in India, is spearheading the brand’s entry and long term growth strategy. The company plans to expand into markets including Mohali and Chandigarh, along with other emerging Tier I and Tier II cities. The network will comprise a mix of company owned and franchised outlets, with GDK targeting more than 450 restaurants across India over the long term.
Founded in Berlin and headquartered in the UK, GDK operates across markets including the UK, US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Sweden and Ireland. The brand offers a contemporary take on doner, combining flame grilled meat, fresh ingredients, signature sauces and toasted waffle bread.
In India, GDK will focus on flavour, freshness, quality and protein focused food choices, while seeking to connect with younger consumers through its association with music, fashion, sport, fitness and contemporary youth culture.
GBC India brings expertise across food manufacturing, product development, supply chain and franchise development. Its partnership with GDK has evolved over more than a decade, with a focus on maintaining product quality and operational standards.
Vikrant Tomer, Chief Executive Officer, GDK India, said the company aims to go beyond building a restaurant chain and focus on developing the doner category in India.
“India has one of the largest and youngest QSR markets in the world. We aim to bring a globally benchmarked doner experience to Indian consumers,” he said.
The India expansion will be driven by a focus on maintaining global standards while adapting the experience to local consumer preferences. The company said its target of more than 450 restaurants would be supported by fresh ingredients, consistent quality and an offering designed to appeal to India’s young consumer base.
Ginny Sahni, Managing Director, GBC India, said the company’s decade long association with GDK had given it a strong understanding of the brand’s standards, operating culture and approach to quality.
“Launching GDK in India is a natural next step, bringing freshness, flavour and a global dining experience to our local audience,” he said.
With Hyderabad serving as the launch market, GDK is now looking to expand into cities such as Mohali and Chandigarh, along with other emerging Tier I and Tier II markets. The growth strategy will combine company owned and franchised outlets as the brand builds its presence across India.
Adding a cultural dimension to its India strategy, GDK has partnered with musician, actor and filmmaker Parmish Verma as its Cultural Partner. The collaboration is aimed at strengthening the brand’s connect with younger consumers through music, entertainment, fashion, fitness and contemporary culture.
The company views the Hyderabad launch as the first step in its India growth journey, with an ambitious long term target of more than 450 outlets across the country.
