Popo Global Raises Rs 532 Crore From Artal Asia to Accelerate Restaurant Expansion

Bengaluru-based restaurant operator Popo Global has raised Rs 532 crore ($56 million) from investment firm Artal Asia as it looks to expand its restaurant footprint across India and scale its food and beverage portfolio.

Popo Global operates The Pizza Bakery, Paris Panini and Smash Guys. The company follows a company-owned operating model rather than relying primarily on franchising, giving it direct control over restaurant operations.

Founded by brothers Abhijit Gupta and Nikhil Gupta, Popo Global launched The Pizza Bakery in Bengaluru in 2017 before expanding the brand and adding Paris Panini and Smash Guys. Its portfolio spans the casual dining and quick service restaurant segments.

The company has not disclosed the specific terms of the transaction. Moneycontrol had earlier reported that Popo Global was in discussions with global private equity firm Invus Group to raise around Rs 500 crore for a minority stake. The proposed deal was expected to value the company at around Rs 1,100 crore to Rs 1,350 crore.

Popo Global recorded revenue of around Rs 175 crore in FY25 and remained profitable during the year. The latest funding is expected to be used to add outlets and support the expansion of its existing restaurant brands across India.