Le Pain Quotidien, the renowned Belgian all-day bakery and restaurant brand, is making its return to the Indian market through a master franchise agreement with Bake & Brew Private Limited, backed by the Nalanda Group. This strategic move is a significant part of Le Pain Quotidien’s global expansion plan, with a target of launching over 100 outlets across India by 2035 and achieving a brand valuation of Rs 1,000 crore within the next decade.
The initial phase of this expansion includes a Rs 35 crore investment to open two flagship outlets in Mumbai by March 2025. The brand’s growth strategy will focus on major metropolitan areas and key travel retail hubs, such as airports, aiming to establish Le Pain Quotidien as a prominent player in India’s hospitality and retail sectors.
Founded in Brussels in 1990 by Alain Coumont, Le Pain Quotidien has grown to over 220 stores in more than 20 countries worldwide. The brand is celebrated for its commitment to high-quality, fresh ingredients—a philosophy it intends to maintain as it re-enters the Indian market.
Brijesh Agrawal, Director of Bake & Brew Private Limited, will spearhead Le Pain Quotidien’s return to India. Agrawal highlighted the venture’s mission to redefine the bakery and dining experience in the country. “Our partnership is driven by a shared vision to introduce Indian consumers to Le Pain Quotidien’s unique blend of rustic charm and modern innovation. We are dedicated to providing a premium dining experience that caters to the evolving tastes of Indian consumers while adhering to the brand’s global standards of sustainability and quality,” Agrawal stated.
Annick Van Overstraeten, CEO of Le Pain Quotidien, also expressed enthusiasm for the brand’s re-entry into India. “We are thrilled to bring Le Pain Quotidien back to India. This marks a new chapter where we aim to create spaces that foster community, offering an authentic dining experience that celebrates the joy of simple, nourishing food. Partnering with Bake & Brew and Brijesh Agrawal ensures we meet the local market’s expectations and sustainability goals,” she said.
Le Pain Quotidien’s expansion in India is expected to generate around 1,500 jobs, with Bake & Brew implementing comprehensive training programs to maintain high service standards. The brand’s menu will feature a combination of global signature dishes and locally inspired offerings, including millet-based dishes, salads, tartines, and organic sourdough bread. While 80 percent of the menu will reflect Le Pain Quotidien’s global offerings, 20 percent will be tailored to local tastes. The menu will also include a variety of healthy beverages, such as house-made lemonades, teas, and coffees made from natural ingredients.
The design of Le Pain Quotidien’s Indian outlets will mirror the brand’s core values, blending rustic charm with modern aesthetics and emphasizing communal dining. The brand’s commitment to sustainability will be evident in its use of biodegradable packaging and collaborations with local farmers.
Le Pain Quotidien’s strategic re-entry into India signifies more than just business growth; it represents a dedication to reviving communal dining and delivering authentic, high-quality, sustainable food options to the Indian market.
