Restaurant India News: The Souvlaki Partners with Franchise India to Enter India QSR Market

The Souvlaki, a popular Greek fast-food brand from London, has entered the Indian quick-service restaurant market through a master franchise agreement with Franchise India Brands Limited. This marks the first entry of a Greek QSR brand into the country, reflecting India’s growing appetite for global dining concepts.

Founded in 2015 by Valentinos Varelas and Sandy Tsagdi, The Souvlaki began as a stall at Kingston Ancient Market before opening its first restaurant in Kingston upon Thames in 2018. The brand, known for its souvlaki and gyros, now operates 10 outlets in the UK. It has earned several accolades, including Best Takeaway in Greater London at the JustEat Restaurant Awards 2023 and Customer’s Favorite Brand at the Flipdish Awards in November 2025.

Franchise India Brands Limited, one of India’s largest franchise development companies, will support The Souvlaki’s expansion with market expertise, franchisee recruitment, and operational guidance. The company has previously helped several international food and beverage brands establish a presence in India.

The collaboration aims to bring Greek street food to India’s rapidly growing urban market, especially millennials and Gen Z. The National Restaurant Association of India estimates that the country’s QSR segment will grow at over 12% CAGR through 2030, driven by rising incomes, urbanization, and changing food preferences.

Gaurav Marya, Chairman and Founder of Franchise India Brands Limited said, “Franchise India is always on the lookout for global brands that resonate with Indian consumers and have the potential to bring exciting new cuisines to the market. The Souvlaki’s authentic Greek fast food and impeccable reputation in London make it an ideal brand to introduce in India’s thriving QSR sector.”

The founders of The Souvlaki expressed optimism about the brand’s entry into India. Valentinos Varelas and Sandy Tsagdi said, “We are delighted that we will partner with the pioneer of the Franchise in India, Gaurav Marya and Franchise India Brands Limited, our entry into India through Franchise India marks a landmark in The Souvlaki’s journey and a proud moment for our brand. With our multi award winning souvlaki and gyros, we are committed to delivering the authentic taste of Greece in every bite, introducing freshness, flavour, and innovation that will set new benchmarks and redefine India’s fast food experience.”

The brand’s India expansion will target major metros and Tier I cities where demand for international fast-food formats is strong. Several franchise outlets are planned in the first phase. Both Franchise India and The Souvlaki expect quick consumer uptake as Indians increasingly seek global flavors in organized food retail.

With this partnership, The Souvlaki becomes the latest international QSR chain to tap into India’s fast-growing foodservice market. Its entry also signals the category’s widening diversity, reflecting shifting consumer preferences toward more globalized dining experiences.