Restaurant India News: Ai-CHA Plans India Expansion After Opening First Store in New Delhi

Ai-CHA, the Indonesia-based tea and premium ice cream chain, has entered the Indian market with the launch of its first outlet in Amar Colony, New Delhi, on June 6. The opening marks the brand’s debut in South Asia and forms part of its broader international expansion strategy.

The company currently operates more than 2,500 stores across 40 countries and is now targeting India, one of the fastest-growing food and beverage markets globally. The Delhi outlet introduces Indian consumers to Ai-CHA’s portfolio of fruit teas, milk teas, boba beverages, ice creams and desserts.

The menu includes globally popular products such as Vanilla Ai-Scream, Ai-Squash Lemonade, Ai-Milk Tea Brown Sugar Pearl and Sund-Ai Boba, alongside a wider range of teas, coffees, hot beverages, sundaes and dessert offerings. The company is positioning itself in the value-driven beverage and dessert segment, focusing on affordability, product variety and customization.

As part of its India growth strategy, Ai-CHA plans to expand through a royalty-free FOFO (Franchise Owned Franchise Operated) model. The company said the approach is aimed at attracting local entrepreneurs while leveraging its existing operating systems and international brand recognition.

Lee, Founder of Ai-CHA, said, "India represents an exciting new chapter in Ai-CHA's global growth journey. Over the years, we have seen consumers across Southeast Asia embrace our products because they combine affordability, quality and unique flavours. We believe Indian consumers are ready for a fresh beverage and dessert experience that can be enjoyed by everyone, from young adults and students to families and working professionals. We are delighted to bring Ai-CHA to India and look forward to becoming a part of consumers' everyday moments."

Sarthak Mohindra, Country Head – India, Ai-CHA, added, "India’s vibrant food culture and growing appetite for innovative beverage concepts make it a natural fit for Ai-CHA. Our focus is on delivering exceptional taste, high-quality ingredients and value-driven pricing that makes every visit enjoyable. Whether it’s a refreshing fruit tea during the summer, a comforting hot beverage during the winter, or a fun boba experience with friends, Ai-CHA has something for everyone. We are excited to begin our journey in Delhi and introduce Indian consumers to flavours they may not have experienced before. As we expand, our goal is to make Ai-CHA one of India’s most loved tea and ice cream brands while creating meaningful opportunities for franchise partners across the country."

The Amar Colony store has been designed to offer the brand’s complete product portfolio and customer experience. Following the Delhi launch, Ai-CHA plans to expand into other major metropolitan markets as it seeks to build a nationwide presence.

The entry of Ai-CHA reflects the growing interest of international beverage and dessert brands in India, particularly within the fast-growing tea, boba and specialty beverage segments. With a franchise-led expansion strategy and an established global footprint, the company is aiming to capture a share of India’s evolving quick-service beverage market.